"Pembangunan ekopelancongan di Pulau Jerejak perlu bergerak lancar agar ia dapat menjadi lokasi utama tarikan pelancong seperti Pulau Redang dan Pulau Perhentian di Terengganu,'' ujarnya.


seriously?! :nuts:

Pulau Redang & Pulau Perhentian is totally difference "concept" with Jerejar laaa... Convert it to become like Singapore Sentosa island sounds lot more attractive!

the solution is to stop pollution from entering the streams and river, throwing EM mudballs is not the long term solution. But it does give us some encouraging results.

THE article on Effective Micro-organism mudballs (Mudball marvel?, StarTwo Sept 15) serves as an eye-opener regarding the alternative and potential of utilising microbes for environmental management. However, as a lecturer in microbiology, I would like to share some of my concerns.

Micro-organisms, whether beneficial, neutral or pathogenic, are still micro-organisms and any uncontrolled introduction into the environment will disrupt the existing micro-biota in the ecosystem. Hence, Effective Micro-organism (EM) mudballs application into the environment, polluted or not, raises concern of such a disturbance, which might have a long term effect.

Many micro-organisms, when stressed by changes in nutrient, pH or temperature, will turn into opportunistic pathogens or parasites to ensure their own survival. High inputs of EM might also impact the flora and fauna in the ecosystem.

Therefore, I strongly believe that EM mudballs application should be encouraged only after a thorough investigation on their impact to the environment. Let us not be eager to achieve observable results which might hamper us from doing what is right.



Personally, I would prefer wastewater to be treated at a treatment plant prior to release into the river or sea. By doing so, the application of micro-organisms is restricted within the treatment plant and is not mass-introduced into the natural ecosystem.

Also, what happens to the EM in the introduced site? Will they continue to proliferate and subsequently dominate the niche, eradicating indigenous microbial species? What happens if a surplus of these EM overflows into the marine ecosystem? Or, do the EM die at the end of their function and if so, what happens to the microbial cells? Perhaps the Department of Environment has collected sufficient data for implementing this EM mudballs practice.

Nevertheless, tread with caution as micro-organisms are highly mutating species. Bear in mind that each new generation of cells , (achievable in 24 to 48 hours) can result in a microbial boom which might lead to unforeseen problems rather than a solution.

Lastly, I notice that the pictures in the article show volunteers making and throwing EM mudballs without wearing gloves. Again, beneficial organisms such as EM do not mean they do not have any pathogenic potential. Not wearing gloves is like soiling your hands with microbes and this is not a good practice, especially if you have wounds or skin abrasions. Always wear gloves when dealing with micro-organisms.

Science is about innovation and creativity, as well as responsibility to ourselves, other beings and the environment.

Adeline Ting, PhD

Kuala Lumpur

Tender out for ‘green’ theme park in Teluk Bahang
By MANJIT KAUR


GEORGE TOWN: The tender is out for a first-of-its-kind world-class, environment-friendly theme park in Teluk Bahang.

Penang Water Supply Corporation Sdn Bhd, which owns the 12.14ha land located downstream from the Teluk Bahang Dam, advertised the tender for the multi-million-ringgit project in several newspapers recently.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng was reported as saying that a Penang-based company involved in the design and construction of the landmark Universal Studios Theme Park in Singapore had submitted a proposal to the state government for an eco-friendly Ecofun Theme Park Resort here.

Lim said like any other project, an open tender would be called before the state could decide which company was most suitable to construct the theme park.

Penang Water Supply Corporation corporate services manager K. Jeyabalan said the tender was called on Sept 28 and the closing date for submission was Oct 19.

“Some parties have started to take the documents and normally, they would only hand in their proposals on the closing date,’’ he said yesterday.

Sim Leisure’s managing director Sim Choo Kheng, the individual who first proposed the theme park, also confirmed that several parties had shown interest in building the park.

He said at a briefing by the corporation on Sept 25, he met several competitors, adding that he would be submitting his proposal soon.

“Although I am passionate about the project, I do not have any hidden agenda. It is not a problem if my company does not get the tender.

“I will be happy if any of the other parties get the offer. I am also happy for Penang as this project can bring another range of value-added products to promote the state,” he said.

Penang expands market for medical tourism
By TUNKU SHAHARIAH


PENANG is set to become a world-renowned medical tourism hub with Europe, the United States and Papua New Guinea emerging as new potential markets.

State Tourism Development and Culture Committee chairman Danny Law Heng Kiang said the state’s medical tourism was currently well known among regional tourists from the Asean and the Middle East markets.

He said tourists from western countries were attracted to the medical tourism industry here as they would only be paying about a fifth of the total medical costs in their respective countries.

“We plan to expand the market to cater to tourists from Europe where surgery fees are exorbitant compared to our rates.

“For instance, a tooth extraction may cost about RM6,000 in Europe while over here, the Europeans only need to pay less than RM1,000,” he told reporters at the ‘World Tourism Day’ press conference at Traders Hotel in Penang on Sunday.

Law said the expansion plan was timely as the state had eight private hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment and top specialists whose competency was at par with their international counterparts.

Law also said Penang’s medical tourism turnover was RM171mil last year and that the state hoped to achieve a RM180mil turnover this year.

“There’s a huge potential in medical tourism and the state’s investment arm, investPenang, has plans to build another hospital on the island to cater to the thriving medical tourism industry.”

He also said that apart from coming to the state to seek medical attention, the tourists could also enjoy hawker and gourmet food in Penang, as well as the heritage sites, shopping and night life as “Penang has it all”.

Tiger park plan goes cold
By MANJIT KAUR


THERE are no plans to create a tiger park as concrete proposals have not been submitted to the Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) since the issue was first raised in March this year.

MPPP president Tan Cheng Chui, when contacted, said Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng had yet to get back to him on the matter.

Many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and animal conservationists were opposed to the park.

Tan said the idea mooted by Lim was only a suggestion, adding “we are open to proposals but they must be strong and solid.’’

Tan was asked to comment on the latest development in the tiger park proposal which was initially suggested to be sited on a 40ha plot in Relau known as Pondok Durian Cap Kaki.

MPPP owns the plot of land.

Tan said an NGO had come up with a proposal to have a shelter for stray dogs and cats instead.

Asked if the shelter would be located near the proposed tiger park, Tan said that it was not necessary.

“We are still in negotiation and are looking for a suitable location,’’ he added.

Councillor Lim Siew Khim had said during a recent MPPP meeting that an NGO had suggested that a shelter be built to reduce the number of animals being put down in the state.

Some of my friends said they prefer tiger show that tiger park. Very naughty guys.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/10/10/lifefocus/f_02beachstreet.jpg
A section of Beach Street in Penang which housed Chinese wholesalers.-MALAY PENINSULA: OLD PHOTOGRAPHS OF MALAYA & SINGAPORE

1st Phase Of Kampung Tanjong Tokong Resettlement To Begin Next Year
October 17, 2009 19:07 PM

KEPALA BATAS, Oct 17 (Bernama) -- The first phase of the Kampong Tanjong Tokong resettlement project is expected to begin in the first quarter next year.

UDA Holdings Bhd (UDA Holdings) managing director, Datuk Jaafar Abu Hassan said the first phase of the project, involving the construction of 10 blocks of flats with 500 residential units, would take two years to be completed.

He said the 10 blocks would comprise five blocks of five-storey, two blocks of nine-storey and three blocks of 10-storey buildings.

A total of 235 from 833 families in the village would move into the new houses upon completion, he told reporters at the Uda Land (North) Sdn Bhd's Aidilfitri celebration, here Saturday.

He said UDA Holdings had been instructed by the government to develop the resettlement areas to ensure that the village residents would not be left out from the rapid development that was taking place around the area.

According to the plan, he said the village would be redeveloped in four phases, consisting of 1,500 residential units, 27 shop lots as well as various infrastructures and modern facilities.

Jaafar said to enable the first phase of the project to commence, the eligible residents would be evacuated to transit houses, with all costs born by UDA Holdings.

However, he said the list of residents who claimed to be eligible for the transit houses had increased from the original list of 833 families,

Hence, a special committee would be set up with cooperation from the state government to verify the new applications, he said.

"I'm sure the housing problems concerning the village residents, which have been ongoing since 1974, would be resolved soon," he added.

-- BERNAMA

Residents sleepless over drainage concern
By CHRISTINA CHIN


RESIDENTS of a housing estate in Batu Ferringhi, Penang, are having sleepless nights over threats to the ecosystem due to development.

Tanjung Bungah assemblyman Teh Yee Cheu said residents sought his assistance on problems over a bungalow development in the area.

“The design of the drainage system and the way the water from the river has been diverted have caused water to stagnate and residents here are worried about the area becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes,” he said.

“They are also worried that the housing development, which is already completed, could sink and there is water seepage underground,” he said.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/10/19/north/drainage.jpg
The water retention pond in front of the bungalow development in Batu Ferringhi is causing nearby residents to fear a possible landslide in the area.

He was speaking to reporters after a site visit together with state Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) representatives on Tuesday.

Resident Cheng Peik Lam said the water seepage could cause a landslide in the area.

He added that the water was blocked at several spots and there had been cases of dengue in the area.

DID engineer Mohd Hasrulhis-ham Abdullah said the developer had complied with the department’s condition which was to maintain the natural stream flow.

“The issues identified by Teh involve the smaller streams that branch out from Sungai Emas.

“These are located on private land. So, we will discuss with the developer to see how it can be addressed,” he said.

http://www.jpph.gov.my/V1/pdf/6%20Pulau%20Pinang.pdf

International city bid on the right track
Saturday October 24, 2009
TheStar

PENANG is on the right track towards becoming an international city, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said.

He said the state had recorded several firsts that had given it an impetus toward striving hard to attain international recognition.

“Penang was the first state to eradicate hardcore poverty besides being the first to implement a No Plastic Bag Day on every Monday to protect the environment.

“More importantly, we attracted a record-breaking investment of RM10.2bil last year and our assets are now about RM1bil,” he said at the state-level Deepavali open house celebrations at the Chai Leng Park multipurpose hall here on Thursday night.

Lim said Penang needed to gain more recognition from international institutions to stay afloat such as Transparency Inter-national’s (TI) recognition of Penang’s efforts in fighting corruption.

He said Penang was also now a choice destination for tourists following George Town’s listing as a Unesco World Heritage Site.

“We are also proud to have a Seberang Prai-based company that produces biodegradable plates, cups and utensils to help reduce the use of non-biodegradable polystyrene utensils.

“Our next target is become the first state to provide free Wifi service statewide by the end of next year,” he added.

Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and his consort Toh Puan Majimor Shariff, several state exco members, state assemblymen, diplomats and dignitaries were among the thousands of guests at the event.

Penang-based singers S. Gunaseelan, TMS Shankar, J. Sumathi and Santhana Mary as well as members from Kogila Dance Aca- demy of Butterworth and Nathan & Murugan Nadaswaram troupe provided entertainment.

Penang Green Building Index
October 22, 2009 16:16 PM

PENANG, Oct 22 (Bernama) -- The Penang government is mulling over reducing the development charge, by up to 67 per cent, for residential and commercial projects certified to have complied with the green building index (GBI).

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the move was to encourage the construction of more green buildings, especially government buildings, and make Penang a green state.

"We will discuss this in the near future. We want to encourage GBI in all state government buildings from next year," he said when opening a GBI Forum here Thursday.

More than 100 participants attended the one-day forum organised by the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM), PAM Northern Chapter, Greenbuildingindex Sdn Bhd and the state government.

Lim said the government was also mulling over giving fast approvals for GBI certified projects.

-- BERNAMA

Do you know what happened to the Sungai Pinang Road which was just repaired a week before the Raya? One very big hole and 1 small hole appeared just a few days after the Raya. They just repaired it back yesterday. What type of quality is the road in Penang? Something is wrong here.

Penang government wants proposals for the development of land parcels
By Racheal Lee of theedgeproperty.com
Thursday, 05 November 2009 14:45

PETALING JAYA: The Penang state government is looking to invite proposals for the development of five parcels of land on the island and on the mainland, according to a CIMB Research report on Nov 5.

Of the five parcels of land, four are on the island. They are: Bayan Mutiara -- a 30-acre commercial and residential development; Gurney Drive Offshore -- proposed reclamation of land along Gurney Drive; Komtar Phase 5 where the former Prangin Market and 46 units of pre-war houses on a five-acre site have been allocated for rehabilitation and redevelopment; and Relau/Paya Terubong Hill on a 400-acre plot with an elevation of 250ft to 1,700ft with a good view of Georgetown.

Another proposed development is on a 6,000-acre land in Batu Kawan on the mainland where the Second Penang Bridge will link up with Batu Maung on the island.

The research house said major developers such as S P Setia Bhd and Mah Sing Group Bhd are showing keen interest in these projects, particularly the Bayan Mutiara and Gurney Drive Offshore projects. The participation of these big developers will help accelerate the development in the state.

The research house believes that the outlook for residential properties in Penang is promising as the residential stock overhang in the state is the lowest of the big three markets (Klang Valley, Johor and Penang).

“In fact, the number of unsold residential properties in Penang has been almost halved from five years ago whereas for Malaysia as a whole, it was largely unchanged. Unsold stock in the Klang Valley has also fallen by about a third but has risen in Johor.

“We are more optimistic about the prospects for landed residential property on the island or even seafront condominiums. Residential property prices have gone up significantly in recent years due to supply constraints and the influx of Klang Valley developers. The high-quality and exciting property products offered by these aggressive developers will not only attract upgraders from Penang, but also buyers of holiday homes from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Hong Kong,” it said.

CIMB Research added that Eastern & Oriental Bhd (E&O) and IJM Land Bhd would be the prime beneficiaries of robust demand as they have significant future supply of seafront condos on reclaimed land. S P Setia and Mah Sing are also aggressively scouting for more landbank on the island to increase their exposure there.

It, however, is cautious about the outlook for commercial-type properties in Penang given its smallish population and low occupancy rates for office and retail space. Office space occupancy in Penang stands at only 76%, the lowest in Malaysia, the research house said.

“Retail occupancy in Penang is even worse, at below 70%, the second lowest in Malaysia. There appears to be a significant glut in Penang, which would worsen if more office and retail space were built.

“Even for hotels, we understand that rooms are only full during peak periods and occupancy is relatively low at other times. If three new hotels are built in The Light and two in Southbay, they need to satisfy the requirements for commercial activities there and should not be just for holidaymakers. If commercial buildings in Penang already have one of the lowest occupancy rates in Malaysia, hotels built around them are likely to suffer the same fate,” it added.

CIMB Research said the number of hotel rooms in Penang has stayed relatively constant for the past five to six years but it will be increasing significantly as new hotels are being built following Penang’s listing as a Unesco World Heritage Site in July last year.

“The opening of new hotels could exert more pressure on occupancy rates in Penang unless commercial activities pick up sufficiently to bring in more travellers. According to Jones Lang Wootton, in 3Q2009, the occupancy rate was 63% for beach hotels in Penang and 68% for hotels in Georgetown. Hotels outside the city had occupancy rates of only 37%,” it noted.

Kek Lok Si Temple pavilion may get world recognition
By TAN SIN CHOW


GEORGE TOWN: The 20-storey high pavilion, built to shelter the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) statue at the Kek Lok Si Temple in Air Itam, may be listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest in the world.

Abbot Rev Seck Jit Heng said the temple management planned to include the RM40mil structure in the records book.

“It is rare to see an octagonal pavilion so tall,” he said. “This landmark should be recognised,” he told reporters at the temple office here yesterday.

The 60.9m three-tiered roof pavilion, which is supported by 16 granite pillars, serves as a canopy for the 30.2m-tall bronze statue.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/11/9/nation/n_21temple.jpg
Tall landmark: The pavilion acts as a canopy for the 30.2m-tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin at the Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang.

Each pillar consists of 40 circular blocks of granite, with a thickness of 45cm and a circumference of 2.1m. The core is filled with reinforced concrete.

Rev Jit Heng said the temple would hold a triple celebration on Dec 6, including a grand opening of the pavilion.

“We will also be celebrating the temple’s 118th anniversary and the 20th memorial ceremony for the fourth chief abbot Venerable Bai Sheng, the founder of the Kuan Yin statue,” he said.

“More than 10,000 people are expected at the ceremony.”

Federal Government To Discuss With Penang On Squatter Problems
November 21, 2009 16:59 PM

BUTTERWORTH, Nov 21 (Bernama) -- The federal government will continue discussions with the Penang government on the relocation of squatters occupying the Defence Ministry's land which will be affected in the project to extend the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) airbase's runway in Butterworth.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop said the squatters' problem should be resolved to ensure smooth implementation of the project.

"We want to work out a solution which does not burden any party, a solution which can be accepted by the federal government, the state government, and most importantly, the people, " he told reporters at a function here on Saturday.

He expressed confidence that the problem, including on the relocation of the squatters, could be resolved.

Nor Mohamed said this when asked on the squatters whose presence might affect implementation of the RMAF runway extension project under the Tenth Malaysian Plan.

-- BERNAMA

Upgrading of river to provide flood respite
Wednesday December 9, 2009
By CHRISTINA CHIN

THE upgrading of Sungai Jelutong will provide temporary relief for some residents in the nearby flood prone area before the Sungai Pinang Phase Two flood mitigation project is completed in 2014.

Agro-Based Industry, Rural Development and Flood Mitigation Committee chairman Law Choo Kiang said work on the Kampung Masjid and Kampung Dodol part of the river would be completed soon while work on the Van Praagh portion would start next month.

“Sungai Pinang’s Phase Two flood mitigation project will start, at the latest, at the end of next year so in the meantime, the upgrading of Sungai Jelutong will provide some relief for the flood-prone areas of Datuk Keramat,” he said yesterday.

“Phase Two can only start once the squatter problem is settled as we have to relocate them so that the contractor can enter the site and start work without any obstruction.

“We are still in the midst of relocating the squatters living along the Sungai Pinang river. We hope this can be done by the middle of next year.”

Law said they also needed to settle the compensation issues for structural construction as determined by the Land Office recently although payment for the land acquisition exercise had been completed.

He noted that plans for the widening and deepening of Sungai Pinang from Kampung Rawa to Dhoby Ghaut were ready.

Four months ago, flash floods caused the water to rise to waist level for residents on the nearby Jalan P. Ramlee, damaging their belongings and even their kuih raya.

And in October 2006, Kampung Masjid was among the worst-hit flood areas in the state, with boxes of Hari Raya pulut spotted floating in the inundation.

Are they treating the polluted rivers in the state?

waaa..penang ppl really dangerous huh!! :nuts::nuts:
http://www.dailychilli.com/news/1490-rowdy-revellers-ruin-the-joy-again

http://www.dailychilli.com/images/stories/2009/12/22_31/rowdy5.jpg

http://www.dailychilli.com/images/stories/2009/12/22_31/rowdy2.jpg

waaa..penang ppl really dangerous huh!! :nuts::nuts:
http://www.dailychilli.com/news/1490-rowdy-revellers-ruin-the-joy-again

http://www.dailychilli.com/images/stories/2009/12/22_31/rowdy5.jpg

http://www.dailychilli.com/images/stories/2009/12/22_31/rowdy2.jpg

. the 2nd pic should be deleted because you can see the guy's underpants....disgusting....:nuts:

^^ its not that bad. i've been to Bukit Bintang area for Merdeka & New Year celebration and trust me, it's even dangerous.. alot of mat rempits, punks and others...

edt

. the 2nd pic should be deleted because you can see the guy's underpants....disgusting....:nuts:

You sure that's a guy? More like a girl to me :lol:

http://antithaksin.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/airport1.jpg
bad
http://photos1.hi5.com/0080/433/940/.zE2Zq433940-02.jpg
good

http://mblog.manager.co.th/uploads/1055/images/1111111111111.jpg
bad
http://www.js100.com/2552/uploads/photos/334.jpg
good

You sure that's a guy? More like a girl to me :lol:

:nuts:wow you think that's a girl eh.....must be a very angry girl:lol:

Masterplan to clean up dirty spots in Penang
Monday January 4, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/1/4/nation/5406142&sec=nation

GEORGE TOWN: A roundtable discussion will be held soon among the powerhouses in Penang to come out with an effective cleanliness masterplan to bring back the shine to the Pearl of The Orient.

Penang Global Tourism Sdn Bhd managing director Ooi Geok Ling has been asked to come up with a cleanliness strategy.

Her mission — to clean up Penang’s beaches, tourist spots, toilets and hawker sites.

“We will hold discussions with the state authorities, Penang Municipal Council, government and non-governmental organisations and volunteers to come up with an effective plan,” she said.

Ooi was commenting on The Star’s article headlined, “Beaches look more like a garbage dump” which was published yesterday.

In the article, Swedish public health scientist Alan Dilani, 52, rapped the authorities for “completely ignoring” the value of maintaining beautiful beaches.

Dilani, who was on holiday in Penang, said the ignorance would not only jeopardise the state tourism but also its economy in the long run.

Ooi stressed that the cleanliness campaign should not be implemented for the benefit of tourism alone but should be made a daily habit among Penangites.

“We don’t need to spruce up Penang for the sake of tourism only.

“As Penangites, we should be proud of Penang and strive to keep it clean at all times,” she said.

She said among the proposals she would put forward would be to place “No Littering” posters at strategic spots, especially at beaches and hawker sites.

Penang Global Tourism Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of the Penang Develop—ment Corporation, is the state vehicle to promote tourism.

^^ No Littering posters...wow that'll do it.

^^ No Littering posters...wow that'll do it.

+1

'She said among the proposals she would put forward would be to place “No Littering” posters at strategic spots, especially at beaches and hawker sites.'

When I read this on newspaper, I was like 'What? This is so funny...' EPIC FAIL :lol:

http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/homepage/2010/1/5/n_pg18beach_feapix.jpg

which one is befor and after?

which one is befor and after?
1st pic - b4
2nd pic - after

Dirty beaches due to oversight

GEORGE TOWN: A communication slip-up resulted in beaches along the Batu Ferringhi tourist belt not being cleaned during the recent festive break.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the contractor Pen Mutiara Fishermen Association – appointed to assist the Penang Municipal Council to carry out beach clean-up – stopped work two months ago when it was not informed that its contract had been extended by six months.

“Its contract had ended in October but when the state government made the decision to extend it until April, it was not relayed to the association.

“I have since intervened in the matter following complaints from tourists. All litter have since been cleared up by the association and the council,” he said after attending a dialogue with Gat Lebuh Nordin public housing residents here yesterday.

“It was the lack of communication and coordination. Somehow, the directive and decision made in the state exco meeting was not communicated effectively to the association,” he said.

Lim added that the association was appointed because the council did not have the adequate manpower to upkeep all the beaches here.

State Local Government and Traffic Management committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the Penang government would tackle one issue at a time when its came to the maintenance of public beaches.

“The focus is on cleanliness. State representatives will be meeting soon with horse-riding and jet ski operators on this matter before sorting out the presence of illegal eateries and pubs along the Batu Ferringhi beachfront,” he said.

Earlier, Lim promised Gat Lebuh Nordin residents to look into their complaints – concerning poor maintenance, flash foods at their car park and security concerns – promptly.

He also said that the state government had allocated RM50mil over the next five years to carry out refurbishment works and repairs at all 42 state-owned public housing schemes.


So is it after or before?..i think the 1st pic is the after the clean up and the 2nd pic is before the clean up

yeah how effective the brains of those authorities...my goodness.... how stupid .... 'No littering signboard' to stop littering attitude.... BRAVO HATS OFF..... dunno where is this world going to............

where they keep their brains ... in their asses..... or do they have one....

Penang set to receive world's largest ocean liner Feb 4
Wong Wooi Kean

GEORGE TOWN (Jan 15, 2009) : Penang’s tourism industry has been lit up by the scheduled arrival of the world’s largest ocean liner, the RMS Queen Mary 2, due to make its maiden call here next month. It will bring an estimated 4,400 visitors to the island.

Authorities are gearing up for the ship’s arrival at the new Swettenham Pier International Cruise Terminal on Feb 4 for a full-day visit, and are preparing a huge welcome and fanfare for passengers and crew.

Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairperson Tan Cheng Liang said at least 40 buses and 200 trishaws were being readied to treat the visitors on tours to various parts of the island.

"We are also issuing at least hundred permits for taxis to ferry the visitors during the ship’s call," she told a press conference at the PPC office here today.

The British-built Queen Mary 2, hailed as the grandest and most magnificent ocean liner ever constructed, will be escorted by yachts and tugboats spraying water as a gesture of welcome in the Penang Channel, with elaborate multi-cultural performances lined up at the terminal.

Its departure later in the evening will be accompanied by confetti cannons and a prolonged blast on the whistle as gesture of farewell.

The ship, which boasts 15 restaurants and bars, five swimming pools, a casino, a ballroom, a theatre and the world’s first planetarium-at-sea, will arrive from Phuket at 6am, to depart for Port Klang later in the evening.

Tan urged the various players in the tourism sector to prepare themselves and provide efficient, friendly service to the guests.

She said the PPC was working closely with the Penang Tourism Action Council, the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), various companies and agencies to create a memorable occasion for the visitors.

The ship carries about 3,100 guests and 1,290 crew members.

Tan also announced that Star Cruise Travel Service Sdn Bhd has decided to make George Town its "mother port" by stationing a permanent vessel at the Swettenham Pier terminal.

Senior vice president of Star Cruise Singapore, Michael Goh, who was also present, said details on the cooperation agreement between PPC and Star Cruise on the matter have been finalised.

Goh said Star Cruise is also set to deploy its new Star Pisces vessel, containing 693 cabins and with a passenger capacity of 1,292 people, beginning Feb 13.

The current Star Cruise Virgo will continue its operations, he added.

Tan added that PPC would be signing MOUs with Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia for passenger connection programmes to attract more visitors to Penang.

"I have discussed with Malaysia Airlines CEO Tengku Datuk Azmil Zahruddin and AirAsia CEO Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes who have expressed favourable opinions on the potential of our tourism sector," she said.

Wanita chief slams exco man for dragon boat mishap


GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s reputation as a renowned venue for the dragon boat race has been marred by an accident which saw two boats colliding off the Jelutong coast here.

A participant was injured in the Sunday incident.

State Wanita MCA chief Tan Cheng Liang blamed state Tourism Development and Culture Committee chairman Danny Law for his decision to change the venue from the Teluk Bahang dam to the Bandar Sri Pinang fisherman’s jetty.

Safety was of the utmost priority, she said, and Law should not have simply changed the venue without consulting those familiar with such races.

“All these years, during Pesta Pulau Pinang, the two-day race was held at the Teluk Bahang dam, and this year it was changed to a new venue,” she said.

Tan was commenting on a Chinese press report yesterday that a 34-year-old man was injured during the Penang Pesta Open Dragon Boat Race 2009 from Dec 12 to 13.

“It was reported that the accident occurred as there was no proper demarcation, and that rescue efforts were also slow. Law only visited the victim in the hospital at midnight,” she added.

Tan added it was also stated that one of the supporters had rushed to help the victim, cutting his hand in the process. He required seven stitches.

“The report has been published online. Imagine what the foreigners will think about it. Proper planning and safety cannot be compromised.”

More than 1,000 participants from Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia took part in the competition.

‘Celebrity Walk’ in Penang
By CHRISTINA CHIN
sgchris@thestar.com.my


GEORGE TOWN: Emulating Hong Kong’s Avenue of Stars walkway, Penang will soon have a “Celebrity Walk,” albeit with a difference.

The Penang version will have commemorative plaques of prominent personalities on the 30-odd trees lining the Esplanade.

State Tourism Development, Culture and Arts Committee chairman Danny Law Heng Kiang said the personalities would have to pay to adopt a tree before their plaque could be erected.

“Although we are targeting prominent people, we will consider allowing anyone who wants to adopt a tree.

“We are still discussing how much to charge but the minimum amount will be RM1,000.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/3/1/nation/n_pg24esplanade.jpg
Interesting programme: Some 30 trees lining the Esplanade have been identified for the project.

“The details of the plan are still being ironed out. If the response is good, the ‘Celebrity Walk’ concept will be extended to other areas,” he told reporters after inspecting the state’s Chap Goh Meh float yesterday.

The Avenue of Stars walkway along Victoria Harbour, has name plaques on the ground, some with autographs and handprints of popular celebrities from the Hong Kong film industry.

Law said the state government was looking to raise funds by selling off the figurines that were commissioned for the grand Chap Goh Meh float procession.

He said the 2.4m tall God of Prosperity figurine, four Penang CAT (Competency, Accountability, Transparency) tiger figurines and a dragonboat replica are up for sale.

“We spent RM15,000 on the polyfoam decorations for the float. We are open to reasonable offers and have not set a specific price.

“We hope shopping complexes and corporations will respond positively.

“Each figurine can be bought separately,” he said, adding that if there are no takers, the figurines might be placed along the Espla-nade as an added attraction.

“It won’t go to waste. We may even re-use it the next time,” he said.

The money raised from the sale of the figurines and the tree adoption scheme would be used to fund tourism activities at the Esplanade.

For details on the event and sale of the figurines, call 04-6505136.

.................................

The Penaga Boutique Hotel
http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/Nov2009/Overall_Proposed_View.jpg

for more info check out http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/index.htm

Government Allocates RM14.4 Million To Upgrade Parks, Gardens In Penang
March 14, 2010 16:07 PM

PENANG, March 14 (Bernama) -- The Federal government has allocated RM14.4 million to upgrade parks and gardens in Penang to attract tourists said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.

From the total allocation, RM7 million would be used to upgrade Botanical Garden in Penang said Ng.

"The Botanical Garden has a very good potential to attract visitors and tourist since it has been identified to be listed among the most beautiful gardens in the world," she told reporters after visiting the Botanical Garden here Sunday.

Apart from the Botanical Garden, Taman Tasek Taiping, Taman Tasek Titiwangsa and Taman Tasek Shah Alam have also been identified to be listed in a book titled '1001 most beautiful parks in the world' added Ng.

Ng said every year, RM1 million was allocated for maintenance of the Botanical Garden that attracts an estimated 100,000 visitors a year.

Meanwhile, Ng added that upgrading works carried out in Bukit Bendera (Penang Hill), involving the funicular train, would not affect the environment since no heavy machinery was involved.

The upgrading works, carried at a cost of RM63 million, would comprise replacing motors, upgrading machinery, cable system and coaches while work that started in January this year, is expected to be completed by October, she said.

-- BERNAMA

[QUOTE=nazrey;53453655]Government Allocates RM14.4 Million To Upgrade Parks, Gardens In Penang
March 14, 2010 16:07 PM

PENANG, March 14 (Bernama) -- The Federal government has allocated RM14.4 million to upgrade parks and gardens in Penang to attract tourists said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.

From the total allocation, RM7 million would be used to upgrade Botanical Garden in Penang said Ng.

"The Botanical Garden has a very good potential to attract visitors and tourist since it has been identified to be listed among the most beautiful gardens in the world," she told reporters after visiting the Botanical Garden here Sunday.

Apart from the Botanical Garden, Taman Tasek Taiping, Taman Tasek Titiwangsa and Taman Tasek Shah Alam have also been identified to be listed in a book titled '1001 most beautiful parks in the world' added Ng.

Ng said every year, RM1 million was allocated for maintenance of the Botanical Garden that attracts an estimated 100,000 visitors a year.

Meanwhile, Ng added that upgrading works carried out in Bukit Bendera (Penang Hill), involving the funicular train, would not affect the environment since no heavy machinery was involved.

The upgrading works, carried at a cost of RM63 million, would comprise replacing motors, upgrading machinery, cable system and coaches while work that started in January this year, is expected to be completed by October, she said.

-- BERNAMA[/QUOTE


Good news ! I love the botanical garden. Hope that they increase the Parking lots there. Very hard to get parking there.

The Penaga Boutique Hotel
http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/Nov2009/Overall_Proposed_View.jpg

for more info check out http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/index.htm

http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/Transfer-1_Feb2010.jpg

http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/Jan2009/in_progress.jpg

http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/Sept2009/Lebuh-Clarke.jpg

http://www.rimbundahan.org/architecture/penang/Nov2009/Transfer_Exterior_View.jpg

more and more please. KL old buildings should also be treated like this :master:

Bon Ton sees value in heritage properties
By Marina Emmanuel
Published: 2010/03/16

Resort, restaurant and retail specialist Bon Ton Sdn Bhd will continue to work with other tourism players in promoting Penang as the choice destination for cultural and heritage tourists.

It has invested RM5 million in restoring historic shophouses in George Town's heritage enclave in Penang to date.

Bon Ton director Narelle McMurtrie said the company's hotel management arm - Brand Bon Ton Sdn Bhd - is looking at managing more heritage properties comprising boutique residences in Penang.

"We are now looking at managing other people's heritage properties here by entering into management arrangements with them since we are on the lookout for about 20 more rooms to make our current business viable," she told Business Times.

Australian-born McMurtrie, who is synonymous with Langkawi's Bon Ton Resort and the Bon Ton Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur (which has since closed), is now training her eyes on promoting both Langkawi and Penang as destinations to travellers who are in search of rustic-meets-luxury accomodation.

Last year, Bon Ton Sdn Bhd acquired 10 shophouses in George Town's heritage enclave along Lebuh Stewart and Lebuh Armenian.

The shophouses have been converted into boutique residences, retail outlets and a cafe.

In Langkawi, the company has invested some RM12 million where it has been operating Bon Ton Resort since 1994 and more recently, opened a luxury resort called Temple Tree at Pantai Cenang.

Temple Tree is made up of a collection of nine antique houses, ranging from ages 70 to 110 years.

The homes were destined either for demolition or on the brink of collapse when McMurtrie acquired them from their owners.

She then reassembled these homes in Langkawi and rehabilitated them to luxurious resort accomodation with modern amenities.

"The Temple Tree project was made possible with assistance from the Ministry of Tourism, which had helped us obtain a loan from the SME Bank," she said.

Her Penang properties are all shophouses, which used to serve as homes, warehouses and shops dating as far back as 1850.

"We want to offer travellers the 'Penang Experience' by combining the state's rich heritage and food attributes and we are in the midst of preparing a Penang guide to shopping and cafes," McMurtrie said.

"By promoting Penang as a destination to travellers, we want to ensure that the state's economy benefits via a spillover effect and that travellers return to Penang and also promote the attractions by word-of-mouth."

New Lane goes one way
Monday March 22, 2010

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/3/22/north/mn_pg03lane.jpg

New direction: Rela personnel will be on hand
to direct traffic at New Lane in George Town.

From today New Lane will be turned into a one-way street with traffic going towards Macalister Road between 4pm and midnight daily.

Komtar assemblyman Ng Wei Aik said the one-way traffic proposal was tabled during the Penang Municipal Council’s Infra-structure and Traffic Committee meeting on Jan 21 and endorsed during a full council meeting on Feb 25.

“The proposal was mooted following several road accidents and complaints about the traffic congestion in New Lane which had been given a temporary hawkers’ site status by the council.

“The one-way traffic system will start from 4pm when hawkers start their business and end at midnight except for Wednesday because the stalls are closed on that day,” he told reporters during a visit to the area yesterday.

“We had earlier sent out 300 notices to residents in the area, traders, hawkers and the Sunway Hotel. We only received two objections and this is why the council decided to impose the one-way system only from 4pm.”

He said residents, traders, hawkers, hotel guests and motorists could drive into the hawker site at New Lane via Kek Chuan Lane or Jalan Datuk Keramat.

“The hawker site went back some 20 years when about 40 illegal hawkers were relocated there from their Macalister Road,” he said.

Ng said the one-way system would be implemented on a trial basis for a month.

“During the trial run, Rela personnel will be stationed there from 4pm to midnight to help re-direct traffic and four ‘No-Entry’ signs will be placed at the New Lane/Macalister Road junction.

“If the trial exercise goes on smoothly, then the one-way system will be a permanent feature,” he said.

Pedestrians in Penang are ‘completely neglected’, says urban planning expert
By ANDREA FILMER Monday March 22, 2010

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/3/22/north/mn_pg02zebra.jpg

The zebra crossing outside George Town’s High
Courts is one of the most used and well maintained

WITH “crazy Penang drivers” being more than a common term, travelling on foot in George Town may be something of a hazard.

One may be surprised to know, however, that most main roads in the state’s capital have at least one zebra crossing with the majority of them in good condition.

A check at some 12 zebra crossings around the state’s administrative base of Komtar saw large numbers of both pedestrians and jaywalkers making their way around the city centre.

Among the busiest crossings were on Penang Road, Magazine Road and Jalan Ria where jaywalking is almost impossible due to the volume of traffic.

All four crossings located on these roads (Penang Road has two) are set on timers and one on Penang Road claims the honour of having the only traditional black-and-white stripped path among all zebra crossings around Komtar. All the other crossings are marked by white lines across the road.

Jaywalkers were abundant at the complex spider web of junctions, zebra crossings and traffic lights just outside Gama Supermarket and Departmental Store as the area sees the meeting of five different roads — Penang Road, Magazine Road, Macalister Road, Datuk Keramat Road and Jalan Gurdwara.

All zebra crossings there are timed as well and long intervals or waiting (at some crossings, up to 97 seconds) caused impatient walkers to scurry across the roads against the lights.

Four-lane Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong also saw a large number of jaywalkers, possibly because of the long stretch between the famous three-street overhead bridge (across Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong, Penang Road and Burma Road) and a quiet zebra crossing at the street’s other end that joins Lebuh Lintang.

“Most of the walkers just want to cross to Jalan Ria as they are heading to either Prangin Mall or Komtar.

“The road is so wide, it will take more than twice as long if we use the overhead bridge,” said clerk Marianne Lim, 32, who was seen running across the busy street.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/3/22/north/mn_pg02missing.jpg

At the crossing on the Jalan Cheong Fatt Tze side of the Carnarvon Road
zebra crossing, both the display and crossing activator are missing.

Further from the town centre, the zebra crossings on Light Street at the foot of George Town’s High Courts and another bridging Upper Penang Road to E&O Hotel on Farquhar Street are both well maintained and among the most aesthetically pleasing.

Meanwhile, a quiet but convenient zebra crossing at Carnarvon Street is probably in the most need of a refurbishment as both the display and button are missing on the panel (on the Jalan Cheong Fatt Tze side) and peeling paint on the poles as well as the faded white lines on the road gives the whole crossing a look of disrepair.

Also in need of repair is one crossing on Burma Road that is out of order while the display on a Beach Street zebra crossing (near the Lebuh Union) flashes random numbers at irregular intervals.

Urban planning authority Dr Goh Ban Lee said pedestrians in Penang were “completely neglected” with the traffic situation much in the favour of cars and vehicles.

“Five-foot ways and walkways have been completely overrun by parked cars and motorcycles, hawker stalls, dustbins and all kinds of other things. The local municipal council should take action to keep the walkways unobstructed for pedestrians.”

He, however, added that building more zebra crossings was not the way to improve the plight of walkers.

“Some people don’t even follow the traffic lights let alone stop for zebra crossings. Although a few more are needed here and there, building a lot is not the answer, and the state must make sure that what we have works well.

When contacted, Penang Local Government and Traffic Manage-ment Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said zebra crossings would be part of the Penang transport master plan under mobility and accessibility.

Been to komtar walk and was dissappointed with the place. Don't like the place. Got a lot of migrants walking here and there during weekends. I guess that Komtar have been a place of the migrants to hangout during the weekends.



Komtar Walk as at 20th March 2010.


http://i922.photobucket.com/albums/ad69/Komtarwalk/komtarwalk1.jpg

http://i922.photobucket.com/albums/ad69/Komtarwalk/komtarwalk2.jpg

part of them still unoccupied, but overall I think it positive as Komtar was really "dead" before this, now at least it come "alive"

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oMn7BJoN9Es/S0ePmrln7pI/AAAAAAAAAKA/TYCdebjvAlc/s400/IMG_2183.JPG

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4063/4363955027_6b94b91fdc.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f0gBM8hsdbA/SzrnuxSUXBI/AAAAAAAAA0c/qSsrS5x02LE/s1600-h/coob+shop.JPG

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3166654&id=230227333808

Heritage developer Boustead relents PDF Print E-mail

Written by Regina William
Tuesday, 23 March 2010 00:08

GEORGE TOWN: The last of the four developers who were asked to scale down their projects to meet Unesco requirements has agreed in principle to reduce the height of its proposed project.

Sources told The Edge Financial Daily that BOUSTEAD HOLDINGS BHD [] had agreed to comply with the 18-metre/ five-storey height ruling for its Royale Bintang Hotel in the core heritage zone of Weld Quay.

The revised development plan would be submitted to the Penang Island Municipal Council (MPPP) for approval within the next few months, a source said.

The company's initial plan was for a RM100 million development of a four-star Boustead Hotel with 300 rooms. The developer had been given the nod to build up to 51 metres before George Town's listing as a Unesco World Heritage site in July 2008.

It is also learnt that the issue of compensation had been raised by the developer.

Asian Global Business Sdn Bhd (AGB), whose project is also in the core zone, has already announced commencement of work on its scaled-down Rice Miller Weld Quay Development.

The project, which arose from its earlier proposal of Pier Hub @ Weld Quay project, had a gross development value of RM250 million.

Rice Miller Weld Quay Development, which conforms to the 18-metre height limit set under heritage conservation regulations, would have 400,000 sq ft of floor space, half the size of Pier Hub's.

AGB's initial plans were for a 13-storey, 100-room hotel called the Rice Miller Hotel, a 100,000-sq ft commercial plaza, a 160,000-sq ft retail podium, 23 small office-house-office (SoHo) townhouses and 105 condominium units. The company received planning permission for its revised project on Dec 1, 2009.

Meanwhile, E&O Bhd had lowered the height of the annexe building of the E&O Hotel in the buffer zone to 15 storeys from 28 storeys approved earlier and CONSTRUCTION will be completed by 2012.

The RM150 million annexe project, which was initially scaled down to 17 storeys, would have 139 suites, bringing the total number of suites to 240. There would also be restaurants, retail outlets, podium, swimming pool and extensive meeting and banqueting facilities.

The other developer, Low Yat group, in the buffer zone along Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, is also said to have relented and would revise its plans for a 23-storey hotel to adhere to the requirements set by Unesco.

All four projects were approved before Penang was declared a Unesco World Heritage site on July 7, 2008. The 18-metre/five-storey height restriction contained in the dossier submitted to Unesco was put in place once the listing was made official

^^ good to hear tat! Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site is far more beneficial compare to high-rices.

Open 2007
Official opening Jan 2008
Current photo (march 2010)
F&B Section

http://i922.photobucket.com/albums/ad69/Komtarwalk/New%20World%20Park%20March%202010/NWorldPark4.jpg


http://i922.photobucket.com/albums/ad69/Komtarwalk/New%20World%20Park%20March%202010/NWorldPark3.jpg

http://i922.photobucket.com/albums/ad69/Komtarwalk/New%20World%20Park%20March%202010/NWorldPark1.jpg

http://i922.photobucket.com/albums/ad69/Komtarwalk/New%20World%20Park%20March%202010/NWorldPark5.jpg

Half of the shops in the F&B sector have closed down. Luckly a nyonya food outlet and starview opened their outlet here. Starview moved into New world park from its old place nearby last year.

Mizi and old town is still going strong there but I don't know about starbuck. I usually see a few people (sometimes none) in starbuck.

The business at the hawker section is still very good. People still prefer hawker food. People from outstation will come to the New World Park for the hawker food.

not because of the hawker i guess. but maybe the rental is too high......:(

New World Park was first conceived to immitate Bintang Walk in KL, but fall far from the target except for the tent-like awnings:ohno:
Now, Komtar Walk is another twin of New World Park or Bintang Walk:baaa:
Just can't come up with some thing innovative and just has to copy and copy others...like Gurney Drive to be like the Kowloon Star Walk....give me a break:lol:

it's ok to copy the concept (it's BB Park actually, not Bintang Walk). but the rental should be attractive lah...the area is not bad at all. dekat dengan Tune Hotel some more...

i think mostly due to penang hawker are too reputated...penangites like hawker food, i believe outstaion ppl also come for hawker food...

But is not too bad for new world park and komtar walk, at least a more modern idea in penang..
Komtar walk also make komtar 'alived' after many years 'dead' under koh tsu koon

not because of the hawker i guess. but maybe the rental is too high......:(

I don't think it is caused by the high rental. The lack of customers are the reason for it. I have been to the BBQ chicken and there are not many customers (less than 3). It was dinner time. There was only one staff serving the few customers. The owner was there with their kids. They used to have good business before. It is alway the same each time I went by the shop.

Hope that things will pickup at New World Park because it is a very nice place.

Copying just the form with whatever names without the reaearch backing is not good business sense. Georgetown is a small area and any location should be good if the products that are in demand and affordable are supported by sufficient clientele. Too many 'walks', 'parks' and malls and businesses just run out of steam when there isn't enough people buying. Businesses open in one particular park and when a new one appears, they close the old one and move because the consummers go for the newer park/walk/mall and that seems to be the problem in Georgetown if not Penang - duplicates every where. Each walk/park/mall has to find her own niche and define the market and type of consummers they target as a whole unit complex. The probelm here is individual rentals by individual small business restaurants or compu gadgets, the complex management does not have specific clientele targets as long as they can rent out the shoplots. Too bad if your particular business or restaurant does not work out, but the complex gets the rental contracts and payment - full stop. There's a lot of rethinking for the complex management to do and redefine their roles to support the smaller businesses and make them successful because if the renters are successful the complex is successful. Another problem is upkeeping the places seem to be a problem in general, places looked really run down after 2 years, but management seems contented. No wonder consummers go to the newer places!
If there's a need to copy do it intelligently and conscientiously (http://www.google.com.my/search?hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=jbM&rls=org.mozilla:en-GB:official&channel=s&ei=nASrS5y3Dc-IkAWN6JS6DQ&sa=X&oi=spell&resnum=0&ct=result&cd=1&ved=0CA0QBSgA&q=conscientiously&spell=1)or there'll be another delapidated mall,maze,walk or park or closure down the road :badnews:

welllllll--saidddddd......

E&O Hotel-ranked among world's best
tahniah :banana::banana:

http://www.theedgeproperty.com/images/stories/the_eastern_&_oriental_hotel,_penang_500x298.jpg
Png E&O hotel has been ranked among the world best hotels in this year’s Expedia Insiders’ Select list.

http://www.theedgeproperty.com/news-a-views/2970.html

Btw, what's that building wrapped in scaffolding before E&O when approaching it from Light Street?

It is E&O Hotel expansion

some event at Komtar walk recently (photo from others facebook)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs601.snc3/31639_393223432452_35880687452_3931971_4959121_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs631.snc3/31639_393223447452_35880687452_3931974_353907_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs601.snc3/31639_393223462452_35880687452_3931976_2013894_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs631.snc3/31639_393223467452_35880687452_3931977_7013021_n.jpg

Have anyone heard about the 72 storey building which is going to be build in Bayan Baru? I guess that the traffic in Bayan Baru will surely jammed up.

Have anyone heard about the 72 storey building which is going to be build in Bayan Baru? I guess that the traffic in Bayan Baru will surely jammed up.

Never heard abt it ... office tower ?

72???? waaaa....

72 or 27? Can somebody confirm it?

Plenitude plans to develop medium high-end, semi-detached houses and condominiums whose units are designed with generous living spaces such as patios and balconies to take advantage of the lush greenery and sea view. The target markets are first and second homebuyers, resort homebuyers, the expatriate community and MM2H applicants.

http://www.theedgeproperty.com/news-a-views/3056-plenitude-acquiring-land-for-development-in-penang.html

72 or 27? Can somebody confirm it?

Sim Tze Tzin (PKR – Pantai Jerejak) spoke on the traffic situation in Bayan Baru and described it as “horrendous especially during peak hours”.

“There are several developments taking place in the area, with a 72-storey building to be constructed soon,” he said, adding that this would create additional traffic woes.

Sim Tze Tzin (PKR – Pantai Jerejak) spoke on the traffic situation in Bayan Baru and described it as “horrendous especially during peak hours”.

“There are several developments taking place in the area, with a 72-storey building to be constructed soon,” he said, adding that this would create additional traffic woes.

72 STOREY??!!! wanna overtaking KOMTAR?!! tats surely a landmark scraper! :nuts::nuts::nuts:

Sim Tze Tzin (PKR – Pantai Jerejak) spoke on the traffic situation in Bayan Baru and described it as “horrendous especially during peak hours”.

“There are several developments taking place in the area, with a 72-storey building to be constructed soon,” he said, adding that this would create additional traffic woes.

Good! I hope this is not a trick like some people did before. "indah khabar dari rupa".

72 storey it is..i'm sure that they will reduce the height due to public concern...as usual...

but for what such a building... office..residence...hotel.... or multi-purpose.... ill be very happy if it's true but must not end up as a white elephant... but i don't think there is such demand for office space... residense canla got lots of demand..

but for what such a building... office..residence...hotel.... or multi-purpose.... ill be very happy if it's true but must not end up as a white elephant... but i don't think there is such demand for office space... residense canla got lots of demand..


It is mostly office units. I heard that there maybe a convention centre there too but I cannot confirmed it. Why build so many convention centre? Maybe Penang can be the convention centre for the world.

Anyway the demand for office units in Penang is bad. Suntech and CEO still have a lot of vacant units.

ECOFUN is coming to Penang?
http://www.ecofunresort.com./index.html

RM1mil facelift for Chowrasta
By WINNIE YEOH Saturday July 10, 2010

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/7/10/north/chow1.jpg

Bracing for change: A front view of the Chowrasta building with the Komtar
tower in the background; (below) a council officer pointing out the dirty
condition to the traders at the wet market section on the ground floor.


PENANG’s Chowrasta Market, which is well known for its secondhand bookstores, preserved fruits and titbit stalls, will undergo a RM1mil facelift next year.

Komtar assemblyman Ng Wei Aik said the Penang Municipal Council’s licensing, building and engineering departments started a discussion in May for work to be undertaken.

“The discussion also involved Think City Sdn Bhd and Khazanah Nasional Bhd which had helped to recruit a consultant to study the whole building.

“However, the team is still trying to determine whether to upgrade or rebuild the market,” he said after inspecting the cleanliness of the market on Thursday.

Ng added that the discussion was ongoing and hoped the plan would be finalised by November.

“We will try to maintain the building if possible. Even though it is not a heritage building, but it still has its value.

“The new plan will see a restructure of the market to accommodate more traders in the wet market located on the ground floor.

“The first floor will house a dry market while the second may be turned into a place for sports and leisure,” he said.

Ng said the state is also calling on investors to submit their proposals to the state for consideration.

Chowrasta, which means ‘four crossroads’ in Urdu, faces Penang Road and is flanked by Lebuh Tamil, Jalan Chowrasta and Jalan Kuala Kangsar.

The original Chowrasta Market was built in 1890 by the George Town Municipal Council.

Meanwhile, it is now compulsory for all wet market traders to have their own bins instead of just discarding the waste on the floor.

Ng said traders who failed to prepare their own waste bins would be fined RM50 by the council.

“This rule that traders have to have their own bins is listed in their licences.

“I have received many complaints especially from Chowrasta Market traders that council workers have not been cleaning up the market.

“But after my inspection, I realised that many traders, especially the fishmongers and butchers, would just discard the waste on the floor or into the drain,” he said.

Ng added that the council sends 20 workers to clean the market everyday from 6.30am to 10pm.

“They will take turns to clean the floors, drains and surroundings of the market at different times.

“The traders have to be fair and play their part in ensuring the cleanliness of the market,” he said.

Ng said traders who were stubborn and refused to properly manage their waste would risk having their licences suspended by the council’s licensing department.

State to rebrand RM1mil complex
Wednesday July 21, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/7/21/north/6690612&sec=North

A RM1mil centralised complex built to resettle hawkers along the scenic Tanjong Tokong is now in a state of neglect and disrepair.

The Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) built the Tanjong Tokong Pavilion complete with 60 hawker lots and a dining area five years ago.

Few know of its existence. Only two hawkers are presently trading there. The place is also littered with bird droppings, and tables and chairs have been ripped out.

The state government now plans to ‘re-brand’ complex.

Deputy Chief Minister Mansor Othman, on the prompting by Kebun Bunga assemblyman Jason Ong Khan Lee, visited the place on Sunday and was briefed about the situation.

“I am shocked that the previous state government had allowed such a thing to occur.

“The council was instructed to construct the hawker centre and after completion, the lots were likely allocated to non-traders who failed to lease them out.

“The state government will direct the council to ‘re-brand’ the complex as it has potential to become a popular hawker spot due to its strategic location,” he said.

Resident Osman Shah, 45, said the centre was supposed to site all roadside hawkers here in one place but most of them failed to take up the council’s offer.

“Residents are afraid that the complex could become a drug haunt if it is left in such a sorry state.”

To re-brand it is one thing. To maintain it is another thing. To have a business minded hawker is also another big headache. Most of them only 'hangat-hangat tahi ayam'...Don't blame others, just blame himself..

Facelift plan for Penang City Hall
By ANN TAN Tuesday August 3, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/8/3/north/6770813&sec=North

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/8/3/north/a.jpg

Street art: RM2m will be spent on sculptures such as this at
Transfer Road to create awareness on local history and culture.

A TOTAL of RM6mil will be spent over the next two years for the upgrading of City Hall at the Esplanade in Penang.

The Penang Municipal Council’s (MPPP) financial management sub-committee alternate chairman Tan Hun Wooi said the allocation would come from the 2011 and 2012 budgets.

“However, the allocation is still subjected to approval at the administrative meeting for the 2011 budget in August.

“The furniture cost to replace and refurbish the broken and old furniture has also been included in the RM6mil allocation,” he said during the full council meeting on Friday.

Tan said the committee had also approved a total of RM95,000 for repair works in City Hall under the council’s 2010 additional budget.

“The allocation comes from the saving of wages of vacant positions in the council that have yet to be filled up.

“The repair works include repairing the roof and toilet ceiling, and replacing the leaky gutters and damaged lamps.”

On another matter, Tan said the committee also approved RM2mil to be applied under the 2010 additional budget for the Marking George Town Sculpture project.

“The allocation will be used to place more than 40 sculptures around George Town to create awareness about the historical and cultural identity of some of the local sites in the city,” he said.

It was earlier reported that Sculpture At Work, the company which won the ‘Marking George Town — An Idea Competition for a Unesco World Heritage Site’, is responsible for the sculptures, most of which will be made using wire rods.

On a separate matter, Tan said a delegation comprising 24 councillors, 10 council officers from the various departments and the council president or secretary would be going to Singapore to meet up with the island republic’s housing development authority.

“The four-day trip is not a holiday but a working trip as we will be attending seminars and conferences to exchange ideas about cleanliness, infrastructure, public transport and hawker issues,” he added.

RM1.2mil to polish up Penang
Saturday August 7, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/8/7/north/6798381&sec=North

THE Penang Municipal Council is allocating RM1.2mil to councillors to conduct programmes under ‘The Cleaner, Greener Penang’ initiative launched on May 22.

State Local Government and Traffic Manage-ment Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said each councillor would receive RM50,000 for projects such as landscaping and education programmes and gotong-royong drives.

“We are happy to know that the initiative has caught the attention of the Federal Government,” he said, adding that this year-long campaign was gaining momentum.

“We are open to any parties becoming involved, whether it’s the Federal Govern-ment or ministries, to help make Penang cleaner.

“We aim to make the state a choice destination for investors and tourists,” he said.

A clean-up activity under this initiative will be held at the reclamation area beside the Yeoh Jetty in Weld Quay tomorrow at 8am.

IJM Land Bhd is sponsoring compostable bags and gloves for the clean-up while Cardia Bioplastics will provide biodegradable trash bags.

The bags will turn into fertiliser after 180 days. Other sponsors include Rapid Penang and KBH Sdn Bhd.

Visitors will also have the chance to win a new Nokia X3 handphone.

All they have to do is bring along their old handphones to be recycled and then guess the number of handphones in a container.

The Cleaner, Greener Penang campaign is a one-year initiative co-organised by Star Publications (M) Bhd, Penang Municipal Council and Seberang Prai Municipal Council with support from the state government.

Meanwhile, the Penang Local Government Consultative Forum will be held at the Caring Society Complex on Monday from 9am to 12.30pm.

Issues that will be discussed are ‘Heritage Development in Penang’ and the new swiftlet industry guidelines.

The forum is open to the public.

New hill railway coaches ready for the ride

GEORGE TOWN: The new Swiss-made coaches for the Penang Hill funicular train service have arrived.

The two coaches, each weighing 16 tonnes and measuring 16m in length, were unloaded at the foot of the hill after arriving here at 1am yesterday from Port Klang.

Penang Public Works, Utilities and Transportation Committee chairman Lim Hock Seng said the coaches, with five compartments each, would be put on the tracks for a trial run once the RM63mil upgrading of the funicular system was completed in November.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/8/20/nation/n_01railway.jpg

“The modern coaches will still have the wooden benches, which shows that we are still keeping the heritage value intact,” he said when met at the foot of Penang Hill yesterday.

He added that the upgrading was originally scheduled for completion in September but had been delayed as the contractors needed more time to strengthen the tracks’ foundation and slopes.

On Feb 22, the 87-year-old funicular train service ceased operations to make way for the RM63mil upgrading project by the Tourism Ministry.

The new air-conditioned coaches, which can carry 50 people each, will travel non-stop between the foot of the hill and the top station under the upgraded system unlike the old system where passengers have to change trains at the middle station.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/8/20/nation/n_04coach.jpg

Lim said the commuting time of the new service would be less than 10 minutes per way compared to 30 minutes previously.

He said the new service would be able to carry 1,000 passengers per hour compared to 250 under the old system.

He said the coaches would be able to glide down at a slower speed to the lower station should there be any technical glitch or power supply disruption.

Lim said there would also be a sensor system to enable early detection of landslides or trees falling onto the rail tracks as well as a stand-by generator to provide power should there be electricity supply disruption.

Saturday August 21, 2010
New use for old tracks
By CHRISTINA CHIN
sgchris@thestar.com.my
Photos by K.T. GOH




Part of Penang Hill's old funicular railway tracks that are being replaced will be salvaged for reuse in new hawker and visitor centres to be built on the hill.

TO preserve an important chapter in Penang’s history, parts of the old railway tracks of the Penang Hill funicular train have been salvaged to be used as building materials for the hill’s redevelopment project.

Sixty-three 6m-long segments of the old tracks will be used for the new hawker centre and visitor centre which will be built under the first phase of the redevelopment project.

Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) building director Yew Tung Seang said it would be a waste to throw the tracks away.

“The Penang Hill Railway is an important part of Penang’s history and we want to try to incorporate that into the two new buildings.

“We wrote to the Public Works Department to help us retain some of the parts and they have graciously agreed.

“We will discuss with architect Prof Dr Jimmy Lim, who came up with the redevelopment project design, on how to include these into the structural design,” he told reporters after the full council meeting at the City Hall building on Jalan Padang Kota Lama yesterday.


Not going to waste: New railway tracks being laid to replace the old ones (outer periphery) which are being dismantled with parts to be salvaged for reuse in new buildings on Penang Hill.
Construction for the hawker centre is slated to begin in October and is expected to complete by April.

Yew said the council’s target for the completion of Phase One was October next year.

“We hope to get as much work done as possible with the state and council allocations but I can’t really provide an estimate of how much the entire project will cost as we need to wait for the tenders to come in.

“The new Swiss-made coaches for the Penang Hill funicular train service arrived on Thursday.

“We need to work fast because people won’t be happy if they go up the hill and find nothing there to see,” he said.


Hill relic: Workers seen dismantling the old railway tracks to be replaced with new ones.

During the council meeting, MPPP financial management sub-committee alternate chairman Tan Hun Wooi said the council had approved a RM1mil allocation for the redevelopment project under the 2010 Supplementary Budget.

“Another RM1mil has been applied for under the 2011 Budget,” he said.

In July, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng announced that the entire area around the hilltop station on Penang Hill would undergo a major beautification facelift as part of the state government’s efforts to liven up the place.

Plans include a new hawker centre, a new recreational walk-path, a pavilion, new visitor centre, terrace dining areas, restoration of old government quarters atop the hill and a business centre.

The project implementor and coordinator is the MPPP.

The cost of the project will be jointly borne by the state and council.

Some 14 potential bidders attended the council’s site briefing for Phase One on Aug 9.

Those keen to submit the tender must do so by the end of the month.

Penang invites international tenders for land

A piece of land located between Penang’s first bridge and Queensbay shopping mall will be put out to international tender by the Penang government.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the 100 acres, 40 of which are to be reclaimed, will be sold for a minimum reserve price of RM200 psf.

“It’s very cheap and the land can be used to develop hospitals or office lots ... it’s a bargain 10 years down the road,” he told reporters after speaking at the 13th National Housing and Property Summit in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, on July 29.

Revealing that the parcel has generated much foreign interest, he welcomed investors both from Penang and outside Penang to bid for it. The tender documents will be out by the middle of this month and the letter of award is expected to be given next year.

Interesting

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/4969791427_80295396bb_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/4969788589_893a8b9077_b.jpg

wow...i am wondering if this can be built within the heritage city....?

woowww!!!!!!!!!!!!

i dont beleve in this. its fake! we dont have toe money! :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2:

rizalhakim, where did you find this thing??

removed

i dont beleve in this. its fake! we dont have toe money! :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2:

And THAT is ICONIC.

And THAT is ICONIC.

I do not believe it. It will not be approved in the first place because of Heritage City status. Secondly, the project need to abolish Port Swettemham. How could it be possible?

The 4 highrise towers projects issue (included one nearby Port Swettenham) almost killed the status of Heritage City. It already made LGE had a nightware.

Penang doesn't need too many skyscrapers, but more land for affordable homes for medium and lower income bracket groups. Developing sky rocketing residential units in term of height and prices doesn't make Penang attractive at all (at least for me). In fact, there is not even a single theme park / zoo or some sort of attraction for the whole family rather than a proposed site for new penang turf club? I just can't believe what is up in their mind.

It is quite impossible for Penang to build Zoo. I am pretty sure NGOs especially SPCA will make their noise and raise their volume infinitely high. I strongly object to having a zoo.

Penang can have as many skyscrapers provided she can afford the best infrastructure in this region - the best public transportation not only bus but also rapid transit - amenities for disable people - of course the green parks, fountains and sports facilities.

More public housing flats should be build to cater for citizen with lower incomes. I do not prefer the developers to deforest and just to build low rise housing. This is not environmentally friendly and causes high car dependency for people. . Do not hope Penang to be urban sprawled just like LA and Chicago.

Yeah, it is time for Penang to build her own unique theme park.. The Pesta Pulau Pinang should be revamped entirely.

It is quite impossible for Penang to build Zoo. I am pretty sure NGOs especially SPCA will make their noise and raise their volume infinitely high. I strongly object to having a zoo.

Penang can have as many skyscrapers provided she can afford the best infrastructure in this region - the best public transportation not only bus but also rapid transit - amenities for disable people - of course the green parks, fountains and sports facilities.

More public housing flats should be build to cater for citizen with lower incomes. I do not prefer the developers to deforest and just to build low rise housing. This is not environmentally friendly and causes high car dependency for people. . Do not hope Penang to be urban sprawled just like LA and Chicago.

Yeah, it is time for Penang to build her own unique theme park.. The Pesta Pulau Pinang should be revamped entirely.


totally agree...Pesta Pulau Pinang need a total revamp..^^

Pesta Pulau Pinang never change and the organiser always think that this funfair is the most happening event in Malaysia..pity for them..

deleted

I do not believe it. It will not be approved in the first place because of Heritage City status. Secondly, the project need to abolish Port Swettemham. How could it be possible?

The 4 highrise towers projects issue (included one nearby Port Swettenham) almost killed the status of Heritage City. It already made LGE had a nightware.

what if it was built in say near the Jelutong Expressway in a 100 years time....

Sunday September 26, 2010
Double deckers for state
By EDMUND NGO
edmundngo@thestar.com.my


GEORGE TOWN: Double-decker Rapid Penang buses, which can take up to 100 passengers each, will ply major routes at the end of next year, said Rapid Penang chief executive officer Azhar Ahmad (pic).

He said these double deckers and 140 more normal-sized stage buses would be brought in under the 10th Malaysian Plan.

Azhar said Penang would be the first state in Malaysia to have double-decker stage buses.

“These double deckers are of the same width but higher than our current buses. They are very cost-effective,” he said, adding that current Rapid Penang buses could carry up to 60 passengers each.

Azhar explained that these double-deckers would hit the streets in stages to ply routes in high-density areas like Air Itam, Paya Terubong, Bayan Baru and Bukit Gedung.

“We will not impose higher fares for those using these buses,” Azhar told reporters during a Hari Raya open house held by Rapid Penang at the Weld Quay Bus Depot here yesterday.

On a separate matter, Azhar proposed to the state government that free bus services run on the first two days of the coming Chinese New Year.

“Many people return to Penang during the festive season and if the proposal is approved, we will be able to reduce traffic congestion,” he said.

He has also proposed a similar bus service from the mainland to the Bayan Lepas Free Trade Zone.

“This service, involving three buses, will operate like the Central Area Transit shuttle buses as we want to reduce congestion on the bridge,” he said.

He added that if approved, the ‘Park and Ride’ system would also be implemented on the mainland.

“The system will allow bus commuters to park their cars in the bus station and ride the bus to the island,” he said.

Penang plans smoking kiosks
Tuesday September 28, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/28/nation/7112193&sec=nation

GEORGE TOWN: Smoking kiosks will be set up around the island once the Health Ministry approves the Penang government’s proposal to make the state smoke-free.

State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the designated smoking areas, by the roadside or in open air areas, complete with ashtrays and chairs, would be built to accommodate some 20 people.

He said, however, a survey would be conducted before the move was implemented in stages.

Phee said since it was difficult to get people to stop smoking, it would be easier to provide smoking areas for them.

“We respect their right to smoke even though it’s detrimental to health,” he said.

Phee said the smoking and non-smoking areas would be gazetted based on general consensus.

Phee said chances were that the state would emulate Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea to differentiate the smoking and non-smoking zones.

Penang plans smoking kiosks
Tuesday September 28, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/28/nation/7112193&sec=nation

GEORGE TOWN: Smoking kiosks will be set up around the island once the Health Ministry approves the Penang government’s proposal to make the state smoke-free.

State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the designated smoking areas, by the roadside or in open air areas, complete with ashtrays and chairs, would be built to accommodate some 20 people.

He said, however, a survey would be conducted before the move was implemented in stages.

Phee said since it was difficult to get people to stop smoking, it would be easier to provide smoking areas for them.

“We respect their right to smoke even though it’s detrimental to health,” he said.

Phee said the smoking and non-smoking areas would be gazetted based on general consensus.

Phee said chances were that the state would emulate Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea to differentiate the smoking and non-smoking zones.

not sure will this effective....thinking of the smoker's habit...would they purposely walk into the smoking area?
unless some enforcement take place i guess...

Where does Penang/NCER stand in the Federal government's eyes?

Klang Valley has been the central point of Malaysia and has always been paid close attention by the Central Government. It has become the economic hub of the region and its GDP is seven times ahead of Johor/Penang.

For the past few years, the Fed'government has been trying hard to woo investors into Iskandar Region. I believe that Johor's GDP in the future will be leaps and bounce ahead of Penang conurbation.

The Greater Kuala Lumpur and Iskandar Region are seen as ambitious plans where as NCER, as far as I concern, is merely a plan to improve the current industries and doesn't seem to expand further. What's worse is that it seems there is an almost no attention towards Kedah and Perak which, IMO, is important for the growth of whole conurbation.

To be fair, the Fed'government did have plans for Penang. Eg. PORR, PGCC, Medical Tourism in P.Jerejak, Penang Sentral & 2nd Link. Unfortunately there were loopholes in the plans and the NGOs were protesting fiercely. So ultimately all projects were canceled except 2nd Link. So who's fault is it? The NGOs who were just expressing their thoughts? or the Fed who seems to gotten the wrong impression of what we really want?

The state government seems helpless. I felt like we're back in CM Koh's stagnant times. So is NCER truly being left out and never seen as a potential economic hub by the Federal? If so, what we as Penangites can do? Should we depend solely on CM/PM to envision great plans for NCER? What is your opinion? What we can do to propel Penang forward? All forumers' opinions are welcome here. :)

qdKoQtvhA14?fs

Dk-Y0iq3FVY?fs

World Cities Summit, Singapore 2010

By Regina William
http://www.theedgeproperty.com/news-a-views/3823-guan-eng-at-world-cities-summit.html

GEORGE TOWN: Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng is on a three-day visit to Singapore from Tuesday, June 29 to attend the World Cities Summit 2010 at the invitation of the Singapore government.

The Summit brings together practitioners and policy-makers, together with leading experts in their field to identify innovative solutions to the most pressing challenges facing cities today.

It will offer leaders, mayors, policy-makers and the civil society the strategic platform with plenary sessions, networking forums and technical workshops.

The theme for the second Summit is “Liveable and Sustainable Cities for the Future”, which focuses on leadership and governance and building liveable and sustainable communities.

With Penang ranked by ECA International as the most livable city in Malaysia on par with Kuala Lumpur, this summit would help the state acquire the knowledge and skill-sets required to evolve and sustain this critical competitive edge.

Penang was also ranked the eighth most livable city in Asia and 64th globally.

The Chief Minister will be also be one of the eight panel speakers in the Ministerial Dialogue “Leading the Change: Building Liveable and Vibrant Cities”.

This dialogue gathers past and present practitioners of governance, urban theorists and planners from around the world to discuss the need to build sustainable cities through leadership in the government and urban planning.

The Penang delegation led by Lim will also have a media briefing on Wednesday on various projects in Penang available for open tenders such as Fort Cornwallis, Gold Bazaar, Bayan Mutiara and Craig Hotel.

The briefing will be conducted at SunTech Convention Center, Singapore and has been listed as one of the media events by the World Cities Summit 2010.

The Chief Minister will be accompanied by member of parliament for for Bukit Bendera Liew Chin Tong, and general manager of PDC (Penang Development Corporation) Properties, Puan Zailena Noordin.

xGSdsyAUdUA?fs

Penang is very potential to be a hub in several fields. She can be the

Sports Hub - Penang is potential to be home of premier land and sea sports (such as dragon boats, silat, chingay). A cluster development of integrated world-class sports facilities (not only PISA) should be carried out within the state. Being the home of great sports players like Datuk Nicol Ann David and Datuk Lee Chong Wei, sporting culture, quest for sports excellence should be encouraged amongst the citizens by having more sports amenities. A degree in sport science should be offered by Universiti Sains Malaysia. More sports schools should be built to nurture potentials and to produce results well beyond our dreams.

Medical/Bio- Hub - Penang offers great choices in contemporary medicine as well as traditional therapies and spa treatments. She also offers medical courses/education which are mostly recognized worldwide and has been a preferred destination for those seeking affordable cosmetic and elective surgery. Penang offers state-of-the-art facilities and should have more of such facilities in future so that she can be called the best in service and treatment in this region.

Arts Hub - Penang, a unique state having rich history and cosmopolitan culture of the West and the East. She is very potential to be the Renaissance City teeming with artistic activities. More talent pool, facilities, activities, audience figures and level of state funding for the arts should be encouraged and be built in the state.

Tourism Hub - Unquestionable

Manufacturing Hub - Unquestionable

Apart from attracting FDI, Penang should encourage value added industries and research activities in the state. Investment in education especially in higher education, infrastructure especially in transportation, research in many fields should be carried out.

Where does Penang/NCER stand in the Federal government's eyes?

Klang Valley has been the central point of Malaysia and has always been paid close attention by the Central Government. It has become the economic hub of the region and its GDP is seven times ahead of Johor/Penang.

For the past few years, the Fed'government has been trying hard to woo investors into Iskandar Region. I believe that Johor's GDP in the future will be leaps and bounce ahead of Penang conurbation.

The Greater Kuala Lumpur and Iskandar Region are seen as ambitious plans where as NCER, as far as I concern, is merely a plan to improve the current industries and doesn't seem to expand further. What's worse is that it seems there is an almost no attention towards Kedah and Perak which, IMO, is important for the growth of whole conurbation.

To be fair, the Fed'government did have plans for Penang. Eg. PORR, PGCC, Medical Tourism in P.Jerejak, Penang Sentral & 2nd Link. Unfortunately there were loopholes in the plans and the NGOs were protesting fiercely. So ultimately all projects were canceled except 2nd Link. So who's fault is it? The NGOs who were just expressing their thoughts? or the Fed who seems to gotten the wrong impression of what we really want?

The state government seems helpless. I felt like we're back in CM Koh's stagnant times. So is NCER truly being left out and never seen as a potential economic hub by the Federal? If so, what we as Penangites can do? Should we depend solely on CM/PM to envision great plans for NCER? What is your opinion? What we can do to propel Penang forward? All forumers' opinions are welcome here. :)

What we Penangites can do? We already done the great job in 308, our fed government have been feed gemuk gemuk by all of us since many years ago. But all we can get is... look around!
After 308, although we cant do any huge change now, but obviously u can find more and more peoples love Penang than before. :)

Thursday October 7, 2010
Modern train rides up Penang Hill from January


GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Hill funicular train service is expected to resume in January next year using new coaches.

Penang Hill Corporation steering committee deputy chairman Datuk Lee Kah Choon said the RM63mil Tourism Ministry project to upgrade the service is due for completion next month.

He said a soft launch for the upgraded service would be held in mid-November while a one-month trial run would be carried out in December.

He said the service was expected to resume in January once everything was in order.

On the RM40mil principal budget requested by the corporation, Lee said a big chunk would be used to improve the sewerage system on Penang Hill.

He said the current system was outdated as waste water eventually ended up in the drains.

He said part of the budget would be used to acquire a piece of land at the bottom station to build a sewage treatment plant.

Lee also said the corporation would undertake a joint venture project with the local authority and the state government to build a hawker complex-cum-visitor centre at the hilltop.

“Visitors will have a good view from the top deck. There will also be a playground,” he told reporters during a media briefing at the Penang Development Corporation here yesterday.

Lee said the centre was envisaged as the corporation’s prime attraction on the hill.

“We want to have an iconic building there,” he added.

Penang in third spot for investments
By DAVID TAN
Friday October 8, 2010
http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/10/8/business/7182792&sec=business

GEORGE TOWN: Penang moved to third spot in the country in terms of investment at RM2.25bil in the first seven months, behind Selangor and Johor, which attracted RM3.8bil and RM2.7bil respectively during the same period.

Quoting data from the Malaysian Invest-ment Development Authority (Mida), Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement that the investment figure for the January-July period was higher than the RM2.17bil achieved for the whole of last year.

According to the Mida, total investment for the first seven months for 545 projects was RM16.5bil, of which RM7bil was domestic investment and RM9.5bil foreign investment.

“For the first six months, Penang’s investment figure stood at RM1.53bil.

“This means in July alone, investment went up by RM716mil or nearly 50% compared with the total investments for the first six months,” Lim said.

Foreign investments accounted for about RM1.5bil of the total investment of RM2.25bil for 73 projects in Penang.

“Despite this encouraging improvement, Penang is still half-way from this year’s target of RM4.2bil.

“The state government will redouble our efforts to achieve our target, which is double last year’s investment figure of RM2.1bil,” Lim said.

Total Investments by year
Jan-July 2010 - RM 2.25bil (Target RM 4.2bil)
2009 - RM 2.17bil
2008 - RM 10.16bil
2007 - RM 4.77bil
2006 - RM -
2005 - RM 4.80bil
2004 - RM -
2003 - RM -
2002 - RM 2.00bil
2001 - RM 3.80bil
-
1995 - RM 3.10bil
-
Links
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news_lite.php?id=180914
http://www.penang.gov.my/index.php?ch=16&pg=44&ac=407&lang=eng

Anyone here knows where we can get the datas? I have browsed through investPenang.gov.my and statistics.gov.my but I couldn't find any data.

wow...2008? 10.16 bil? sure its not a typo?

wow...2008? 10.16 bil? sure its not a typo?

Penang got RM10.2bil in investments last year
Link
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/3/20/nation/20090320172300&sec=nation

It was a record breaking year for Penang. Penang recorded a 9.9% growth that year. CM Lim Guan Eng claimed that it was because of the reformation and the confidence in the new governance that has led to this massive investments from foreign (FDI) and domestic (DDI). However, the Gerakan party claimed that it was the then CM Khor Tsu Koon's effort before PR took over and that CM LGE is just getting credit for CM KTK's effort. So who's right?

Penang got RM10.2bil in investments last year
Link
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/3/20/nation/20090320172300&sec=nation

It was a record breaking year for Penang. Penang recorded a 9.9% growth that year. CM Lim Guan Eng claimed that it was because of the reformation and the confidence in the new governance that has led to this massive investments from foreign (FDI) and domestic (DDI). However, the Gerakan party claimed that it was the then CM Khor Tsu Koon's effort before PR took over and that CM LGE is just getting credit for CM KTK's effort. So who's right?

RM10.2b? Why i didn't get a single cent?:lol:

...............

RM10.2b? Why i didn't get a single cent?:lol:

crony thinking...must get some %:lol:

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/7207/85436579.jpg (http://img215.imageshack.us/i/85436579.jpg/)

http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/19/44/45496343.pdf

Where does Penang/NCER stand in the Federal government's eyes?

Klang Valley has been the central point of Malaysia and has always been paid close attention by the Central Government. It has become the economic hub of the region and its GDP is seven times ahead of Johor/Penang.



how can KV has be 7 times of other part of malaysia?

[quote] Originally Posted by arepull87 View Post
Top 5 richest state in malaysia in term of GDP per capita (2008):

KL: RM 48556 ( $15700)
Sarawak: RM 35041 ($11300)
Penang: RM 32724 ($10600)
Selangor: RM 28323 ($9100)
N sembilan: RM 26722 ($8600)
Melaka: RM 24,273


Top 2 poorest state (2008):

Kelantan: RM 7677 ($2500)
Kedah: RM 13301 ($4300)

National average GDP per capita (Nominal) = RM 26821($8600)

http://www.statistics.gov.my/portal/...dual2_2008.pdf[/img][quote]

and the whole 1mil ++ of penangnite pays more taX Than the whole of selangor in 2008,(this one by awang adek hussein,2nd MOF)

^^
http://img826.imageshack.us/img826/8486/13003207.jpg

But then again I only know little about GDP. I can't even tell the differences between PPP and Nominal. And I just know that GDP is basically the value of the output from an area. But based from what I've read so far, the datas from different departments/sites seems to be contradicting. I even remember articles in InvestPenang.com stated different GDP for Penang. One is RM21b and another RM33b. Maybe someone can enlightened me on this topic?

Kuala lumpur alone not include selangor only contribute RM73536 million to GDP of malaysia or 13.9%...the lowest compare other south east asia capital...the largest contributor GDP of malaysia is Selangor provide RM116883 million to malaysia GDP or 22.1%...combination of KL and selangor (Klang Valley) contribute 36% of total malaysia GDP.City like paris and london contribute almost 40% to their national GDP.

Actually economy of malaysia is not too centralized like other SEA country and some of developed country...i think we are not too dependent to KL to generate our economy...

Gross domestic product (GDP) by state 2008

percentage share of national GDP

Selangor: 22.1%
Kuala Lumpur: 13.9%
Johor:9.5%
sarawak: 9.4%
Penang:8.8%
Sabah:5.6%
other state:30.7%

http://www.statistics.gov.my/portal/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=450%3Agross-domestic-product-gdp-by-state-2008-updated-17052010&catid=40%3Agross-domestic-product-by-state&Itemid=61&lang=en

^^
I even remember articles in InvestPenang.com stated different GDP for Penang. One is RM21b and another RM33b. Maybe someone can enlightened me on this topic?

Penang GDP RM 46744 million or around RM 47 billion(2008) :)

http://www.statistics.gov.my/portal/images/stories/files/LatestReleases/gdp/Jadual1_2008.pdf

^^


But then again I only know little about GDP. I can't even tell the differences between PPP and Nominal. And I just know that GDP is basically the value of the output from an area. But based from what I've read so far, the datas from different departments/sites seems to be contradicting. I even remember articles in InvestPenang.com stated different GDP for Penang. One is RM21b and another RM33b. Maybe someone can enlightened me on this topic?

This ought to be answered by a real economist. However, the limited economics I have learnt through one subject teaches that GDP is the measure of a country's or a region's output, i.e. the sum of private consumption, gross investment, government spending and net export. The accuracy of this would depend on the data of each component. The figures for government spending and net export is easy to easy to obtain, but it is less so for private consumption and gross investment. It really depends on who is providing the primary data.

GDP on a PPP basis refers to the GDP figure normalised to compare the relative purchasing power of each countries. Since reported GDP figures alone do not reflect the purchasing power of each country (because of exchange rate, inflation and so on), GDP (PPP) is needed to compare the "actual" output of a different countries. In other words, GDP(PPP) is used when comparing GDP of different countries.

Nominal GDP refers to the figure reported currently for the year, while Real GDP is the figure normalised to a year, again, to compare the actual growth of the country. This is because nominal GDP is the face values reported each year, which takes into account inflation. Comparing all nominal figures to a basis year allows you to see the real growth of the GDP. In other words, GDP(Real) is used when comparing GDP growth in a country of different years.

Of course, those are my limited understanding. =)

This ought to be answered by a real economist. However, the limited economics I have learnt through one subject teaches that GDP is the measure of a country's or a region's output, i.e. the sum of private consumption, gross investment, government spending and net export. The accuracy of this would depend on the data of each component. The figures for government spending and net export is easy to easy to obtain, but it is less so for private consumption and gross investment. It really depends on who is providing the primary data.

GDP on a PPP basis refers to the GDP figure normalised to compare the relative purchasing power of each countries. Since reported GDP figures alone do not reflect the purchasing power of each country (because of exchange rate, inflation and so on), GDP (PPP) is needed to compare the "actual" output of a different countries. In other words, GDP(PPP) is used when comparing GDP of different countries.

Nominal GDP refers to the figure reported currently for the year, while Real GDP is the figure normalised to a year, again, to compare the actual growth of the country. This is because nominal GDP is the face values reported each year, which takes into account inflation. Comparing all nominal figures to a basis year allows you to see the real growth of the GDP. In other words, GDP(Real) is used when comparing GDP growth in a country of different years.

Of course, those are my limited understanding. =)
Thanks for the reply. You have cleared most of my confusion about GDP/Nominal/PPP
Of course I'm still not fully understand about it in depths but definitely it is much clearer to me now :)

Penang GDP RM 46744 million or around RM 47 billion(2008) :)

http://www.statistics.gov.my/portal/images/stories/files/LatestReleases/gdp/Jadual1_2008.pdf

Thanks for the link :)

Pulau Jerejak
http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/9492/70933128.jpg (http://img263.imageshack.us/i/70933128.jpg/)
Is it me or the deforestation has gone south/bigger?
And what's that in the red box? Is it the former prison?

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/2237/83482587.jpg (http://img193.imageshack.us/i/83482587.jpg/)
I have no idea there is a yard for shipbuilding/repair in P.Jerejak (Boustead Penang Shipyard)
http://www.bhic.com.my/shipbuilding.php

the yard was there for long time already...

^^ That's the former leprosy center......its supposed to be historic....Anyway I guess they're gonna to redevelop the whole place into a spa/beach resort....

^^ That's the former leprosy center......its supposed to be historic....Anyway I guess they're gonna to redevelop the whole place into a spa/beach resort....

Any photos?

ha!
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/493/2million.jpg (http://img843.imageshack.us/i/2million.jpg/)

Do Penang really need a total makeover?

Kuala lumpur alone not include selangor only contribute RM73536 million to GDP of malaysia or 13.9%...the lowest compare other south east asia capital...the largest contributor GDP of malaysia is Selangor provide RM116883 million to malaysia GDP or 22.1%...combination of KL and selangor (Klang Valley) contribute 36% of total malaysia GDP.City like paris and london contribute almost 40% to their national GDP.

Actually economy of malaysia is not too centralized like other SEA country and some of developed country...i think we are not too dependent to KL to generate our economy...

Gross domestic product (GDP) by state 2008

percentage share of national GDP

Selangor: 22.1%
Kuala Lumpur: 13.9%
Johor:9.5%
sarawak: 9.4%
Penang:8.8%
Sabah:5.6%
other state:30.7%

http://www.statistics.gov.my/portal/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=450%3Agross-domestic-product-gdp-by-state-2008-updated-17052010&catid=40%3Agross-domestic-product-by-state&Itemid=61&lang=en

Since KL is does not contribute that much compared to other capitals of the world, then shouldn't other cities in Malaysia get more attention instead of having so much of the federal funds spent in KL? The contrast of the facilities and services between KL and other Malaysian towns/cities is very stark.

if you wanna compare, penang as malaysia second city, is more progressive economically as well as in term of infrastructure than other SEA 2nd city..

some say,it even bigger than england 2nd city,which is Manchester

Escape Waterpark set to be done in two years
Friday October 29, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/10/29/north/7319825&sec=North
http://www.escape-resort.com/

PENANGITES can have splashing fun near their ‘doorstep’ when the first phase of the RM120mil ‘world-class’ theme park in Teluk Bahang is completed in about two years.

The entire ‘Escape Theme Park Resort’ involving three phases would be completed in six years, said Sim Choo Kheng (pic), the managing director of Sim Leisure Consultants Sdn Bhd.

“The work on the first phase — Escape Waterpark – is expected to begin in the first quarter of next year and it is expected to be completed in 18 months,” he told reporters.

Earlier, the company signed the 60-year agreement to lease the 12.5ha land located downstream of the Teluk Bahang Dam with the Penang Water Supply Corpo-ration (PBA) Sdn Bhd.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng who was present said the company would pay RM40mil to the PBA.

“This is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for the state’s tourism industry.

“The project will benefit the Penang Municipal Council which will receive assessment revenue,” he said.

Lim said it took nearly 18 months for the tender process to be completed in a transparent manner.

“The company was awarded the contract by the tender committee based on merit.

“Among others, it was picked because of its offer of superior lease rental payments, inno- vation design concept and its international track record in delivering similar projects throughout the world,” he said in his speech before the signing ceremony at a hotel in George Town yesterday.

Sim signed the agreement on behalf of the company while PBA was represented by its general manager Jaseni Maidinsa.

Sim Leisure was involved in the design and construction of the Universal Studios Theme Park in Singapore. It has also set up theme parks such as the Wahoo Waterpark in Bahrain, Yas Island in Abu Dhabi and Desa Idaman and Hotspring Resort in Malay-sia.

Sim told reporters that the pro-ject would be undertaken in line with the state government’s ‘Cleaner, Greener Penang’ ini-tiate.

“Our company has designed over 50 parks around the world and we hope this will be a new beginning for Penang and the tourism industry,” he added.

Lim added that the theme park resort would set the benchmark for the industry.

“It will provide 500 jobs. Each visitor will also spend money on food, lodging, transportation services or gift purchases.

“It is estimated that the theme park will add RM1.5bil into the state economy through visitors’ spending,” he added.

Electronic payment system for parking next year
Saturday October 30, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/10/30/north/7326937&sec=North

AN electronic payment system will be introduced by the first quarter of next year to replace the manual ticketing and parking meter system on Penang island.

Penang Municipal Council financial management sub-committee alternate chairman Tan Hun Wooi said the open tender to source for suppliers with the best proposal for electronic parking payment system closes on Nov 8.

“There have been a few proposals such as using the Easy System parking reader device and coupon system.

“There is also a proposal for motorists to pay their parking through SMS but we will only announce the details once we have selected the supplier.

“Once the tender closes, we will need one to two months to evaluate and another two months to educate the public,” he said.

In a related development, Tan said new personnel would be hired to fill vacancies in the Urban Services Department and Finance Department.

He said the personnel would comprise those who had previously served as part-time parking attendants.

“They will do administrative work and data entry for compound, ticket and meter system,” he said.

Tan said an open tender had been called for parking contractors along Gurney Drive and Rangoon Road.

“We will be appointing two agents for Gurney Drive to save cost after we found that the salary for part-time parking attendants is more than the parking fees collected,” he said.

Tan said the agents would take over in mid December until the new parking system came into effect.

High time to clean up
By FONG KEE SOON Saturday November 13, 2010
Photos by K.T. GOH and FONG KEE SOON
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/11/13/north/7414916&sec=North

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/11/13/north/016762221.jpg

OLD furniture, flower pots, bricks, cabinets, shoe racks, bicycles, television sets, aquarium and fridge these are among the items removed from the corridors of Public Housing Project (PPR) flats in Sungai Pinang, Penang.

A group of some 50 Penang Municipal Council enforcement personnel removed the items, some of them junks, during a cleaning operation on Thursday in response to the falling stone incident which killed 60-year-old Koay Chin Chai last month.

The council's Public Health Standing Committee member Ong Ah Teong led the two-hour operation which was joined by policemen and Fire and Rescue Department personnel.

Ong said the residents had been given two weeks' notice to clean up the corridors.

"Some complied but some were nonchalant. Some of the residents just left it to us to dispose of their unwanted belongings," he said.

He said those who wanted their valuable items back such as bicycles should collect them at the council's enforcement premises on Jalan Timah off Jalan Datuk Keramat.

"We are not going to fine them yet as this is part of the education campaign.

"Those who repeat the offences will have to face the music. The council can terminate the tenancy agreement of those renting our units," he said.

One of the residents, Cyrus Ali, 37, was asked to remove a shoe cabinet placed along the corridor.

"This is very difficult for me as the unit is quite small.

"You can't expect me to perform my prayers next to the shoe cabinet," complained Cyrus, who reluctantly relocated it.

During the operation, the group identified eight tenants who had illegally installed grille gates at their corner lots.

Ong said the occupants would be given a week to remove them, failing which the council would dismantle them.

"The corridor is public space. Occupants cannot turn it into their private area," he said.

Rohana Ahmad, 42, who was among the eight tenants, objected saying the grille gate was not affecting anyone since hers was at a corner lot.

"My husband spent more than RM2,000 on the grille. That's a lot of money for people like us," she said.

Ong said the council would install 13 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at the flats for security purposes in a week.

"The CCTVs will be linked to Patani Road district police headquarters and the state police contingent to prevent vandals from causing any unpleasant incidents in the future," he said.

Ong said the council would also install netting near the lift lobbies from the 15th to the 21st floor of Block A where the stone throwing incident occurred.

"The seven floors were selected based on our study and advice from the department.

"Objects thrown from the 15th floor onwards will surely fall onto the road, while those from the 14th floor and below are protected by awnings," he said.

Ong said notices would also be issued to those renting the council's blocks such as in Taman Free School and the five-storey blocks in Rifle Range to clear their corridors.

wow..good move penang!!!!

its bout time to push malaysian to upgrade their mentalities from those of the 3rd world.

u know what, there are so many books on small apartments interior arrangement out there.

i think government should give them a workshop on how to make small space larger lah :D

http://www.batamhousing.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/cool-interior-designs-for-small-apartments-1.jpg

so many ways to be creative.

Sungai Pinang cleans up reputation as dirtiest river
By ANN TAN Tuesday November 16, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/11/16/north/7434105&sec=North

GEORGE TOWN: The water quality in Sungai Pinang has improved to Class Three after it was infamously declared one of the seven most polluted rivers in the country three years ago.

The river, which was under Class Five, has been in the Class Three category since October, after a waste discharge system was fixed at an abattoir along River Road, said Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

He said RM120,000 was spent by Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) and Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) to connect the waste discharge system from the abattoir directly to the IWK waste treatment plant in Jelutong.

“This is a first step towards a cleaner and greener Penang,” he said after visiting the abattoir here yesterday.

Under the Department of Drainage and Irrigation, rivers are categorised from Class 1 to Class 5 with Class 5 as the most polluted. Class 3 is listed as a moderate level of contamination.

MPPP secretary Ang Aing Thye said that previously, the solid waste from the abattoir was filtered out but blood from slaughtered cattle was released into the river.

“We have blocked all the outlets to Sungai Pinang and channelled it to the IWK treatment plant.”

On the stop-work order imposed on the electrified double track project on the mainland, Lim said he was not blaming the contractor but was merely taking a pre-emptive measure to prevent floods from hitting Penang.

“We don’t want to take the risks,” he said.

Tackle other pressing needs first (http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/11/26/north/7465525&sec=North)

From The Star
RAINWATER harvesting may be a catchy sound bite but for residents of Rifle Range flats in Penang, they’re more concerned with having proper piping and drainage to upgrade the project’s image.

And while most agree the system would help store abundant rainwater for the state’s oldest low-cost housing scheme, they felt other more pressing issues must be resolved before it could become a reality.

For instance, they cited frequent lift breakdowns, faulty utility services, vandalism, lack of parking bays and hygiene, illegal hawkers and a high crime rate as among problems faced by residents.

Nancy Lim A.N. said a rainwater harvesting system alone would not change the flats’ reputation as the residents still had to deal with faulty lifts and other maintenance issues.

She agreed the system could help store water supply during the rainy season but felt that a proper piping and drainage system was vital to ensure effectiveness.

“We need clean gutters and new pipes for the system to work as the gutters may be clogged with rubbish and cause the water to be dirty,” she said in response to the rainwater harvesting winning concept in the Rifle Range: Urban Renewal International Design Ideas Competition.

Lim, 64, said residents must also stop throwing rubbish into drains as it would clog them up and cause the water to overflow whenever it rained.

She was also worried that residents might be asked to fork out part of the costs for the system although it would save them money in the long term.

Another resident, who wanted to be known only as Loh, said the rainwater harvested could be put to better use if it was channelled to the units rather than to public places.

“The pipes may be vandalised and we do not have much use for public taps unless they are fixed at every floor,” he added.

Completed in the 1970s, the cluster of nine blocks of 17-storey flats comprises 3,699 units with more than 15,000 residents.

In the competition held recently, Koi Lik Wai and Wan Jihana Azman, both 25, clinched the RM5,000 grand prize with their rainwater harvesting technology which they felt was an important aspect to revitalise the flats.

“Applying green principles such as rainwater harvesting should not be a trend only but a vital component in current designs,” said Koi.

He said the system could be applied as the technology was already available.

Malaysian Institute of Architects past president Dr Tan Loke Mun said if storage tanks were placed in the flats’ roof, rainwater could be gravity fed into the toilets without using pumps.

“It is simple and practical but requires regular maintenance and cleaning of the tanks to ensure cleanliness of the water,” he said.

He cited the Ken Bangsar condominium, a 15-storey project with 80 units, as another high-rise building harvesting rainwater.

Roundabout gets a makeover
UPGRADING works on the Tunku Kudin roundabout at Jalan Udini, Gelugor, Penang, are 90% completed.

IJM Land Bhd Group general manager (North) Toh Chin Leong said landscaping works were now being carried out.


Green concept: A display to announce George Town's heritage status.
He said the total construction cost, which included a granite wall surrounding the roundabout, was close to RM400,000.

“We hope to wrap it up by the first week of December as we still need to plant more trees, turf grass and finally set up the abstract sculptures,” he said in an interview.


A filepix of the previuos structures that had been described as 'ugly' and were later dismantled.
Toh said the landscaping works focused on promoting a green concept using natural materials.

He also said the Public Works Department had resurfaced the road.

The roundabout was adopted by IJM in September under a programme by the Penang Municipal Council (MPPP). It then undertook the task to redesign and maintain the roundabout.

thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/11/27/north/7442307&sec=North

http://www.ted.com/talks/thom_mayne_on_architecture_as_connection.html

at 6 minit ++ he talk bout a project in penang

anyone know what it was

http://www.ted.com/talks/thom_mayne_on_architecture_as_connection.html

at 6 minit ++ he talk bout a project in penang

anyone know what it was

I think this is the one
http://morphopedia.com/projects/penang-turf-club-masterplan-competition

I believe it's another scheme design for PGCC that is not picked....

Jelutong market to undergo facelift soon
Sunday February 6, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/2/6/north/8011173&sec=North

GEORGE TOWN: Renovation work at the over 60-year-old Jelutong market will begin once the tender exercise closes on Feb 14, said State Tourism Development and Culture Committee chairman Danny Law.

He said after the tender has been awarded to the suitable contractor, work would being within two months.

Law, who is also the Batu Lanchang assemblyman, said besides upgrading the drains at the market, more toilets for the disabled and the repositioning of stalls would be carried out.

“We hope the renovation can be completed within six months,” he told reporters at the Jelutong market yesterday.

Zoning for Penang Hill in the works
Saturday March 26, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/3/26/north/8352192&sec=North

THE Penang Municipal Council has engaged a consultant to prepare a draft special area plan for Penang Hill among others to identify zones for residential areas and tourism spots.

The council’s Development Planning Committee alternate chairman Felix Ooi Keat Hin said the plan would serve as a guideline to develop and maintain Penang Hill.

“With the special area plan, we will know how to develop Bukit Bendera until 2020.

“Currently, we have special area plans for Balik Pulau and Air Itam,” he said during a full council meeting yesterday.

On another matter, Ooi said the Home Ministry had allocated RM1.2mil this year for Penang to implement its ‘safe city’ project at crime hotspots.

Ooi said the project, which kicked off last year, has managed to reduce crime on the island by almost 20%.

“We have focused on reducing crime in places such as Macalister Road, Burma Road, Penang Road, Pulau Tikus, Gurney Drive, Jelutong, Sunshine Square in Bayan Baru, and Taman Sri Tunas,” he said.

He added that they would be working with the police to tackle crime in places like Komtar where there were many cases of snatch thefts and motorcycle thefts.

“We are also going to better light up crime hotspots besides erecting railings along streets such as Macalister Road.

“We hope to complete implementing these safety measures by July. We welcome feedback from the public,” he said.

Railing for a new lease of life
Stories by WINNIE YEOH Saturday March 26, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/3/26/north/8351899&sec=North

WHEN Prof Dr Jimmy Lim was appointed by the Penang Municipal Coun-cil to undertake the Penang Hill Visitor Centre project, he decided to salvage part of the 87-year-old funicular train railway tracks for the centre.

A conservationist at heart, he felt that the philosophy for reusing the old tracks was mainly to preserve their rich heritage value.

“You’ve got something which has no more use and now you found a new function (for it), so why not?” he asked.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/26/north/wi2.jpg

Dr Lim said he had to explain the philosophy behind it as many people did not understand why he had wanted to reuse the old railway tracks instead of utilising new materials.

“I was hopeful to get as many (railway tracks) as I can and I was gifted generously by the Public Works Department with 63 pieces which we hope will continue to survive another 30 to 40 years,” said the Aga Khan Award winning architect in an exclusive interview yesterday.

Work on the four-storey Visitor Centre — which forms part of the RM4.5mil Phase One Penang Hill Redevelopment Project — is expected to start in July.

Upon completion, visitors will be able to see 21 columns with 63 six metre-long segments of the old tracks as the building structure for the centre, which will bear the look of an ‘orange peel’.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/26/north/wi3.jpg

The old tracks were dismantled following the closure of the country’s oldest hill station in February last year to facilitate the Tourism Ministry’s RM73.8mil upgrading works.

Last Saturday, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen handed over the project to the Penang Hill Corporation following the completion of the project.

Dr Lim said the old railway tracks had been sent to Universiti Sains Malaysia for tests and were found to be still strong.

“The tracks are structural elements for the building and not just for decoration,” he said, adding that they would form part of the columns which were significant features.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/26/north/wi4.jpg

He said three tracks would be creatively joined together to form the columns from the ground floor and the tracks would be seen protruding 1m above the first floor.

He explained the main concept for the project was “architecture without wall”.

“The structures are open and visitors can go in and enjoy the panora-mic view of George Town and the breeze.

“It is distinctive and the ‘orang peel’ look is designed to adapt to the environment,” he said, adding that the main structure would be steel, timber and rafter while the roof would be attap.

In terms of building costs, Dr Lim, who is also one of the founder members of Badan Warisan Malaysia, said reusing of the old railway tracks would help to save “a little bit”.

“What we have can be used for a floor only. If we’ve got more, then we can save more,” he said.

Dr Lim also proposed to build an open air theatre with George Town as the background under the proposed redevelopment project.

“The theatre can be for con- certs or even watching football matches,” he said.

The state government has announced that the entire area around the hilltop station would undergo a major facelift as part of its efforts to liven up the place. The plan includes a new recreational walkway, a pavilion, terrace dining areas, restoration of old government quarters atop the hill and a business centre.

I have confident that the Penang Hill Visitor Centre is going to be attractive, always like Jimmy Lim idea and works, his design often focus on regional, and local materials.

I hope Penang Hill will be full with philosophy, art and value...kudos to our prof.

I have confident that the Penang Hill Visitor Centre is going to be attractive, always like Jimmy Lim idea and works, his design often focus on regional, and local materials.

sounds interesting from what he described. I loved the idea of reusing the railway tracks, similar to a building i saw somewhere... can't remember...

but those drawings look... err... ugly.. he he...

sounds interesting from what he described. I loved the idea of reusing the railway tracks, similar to a building i saw somewhere... can't remember...

but those drawings look... err... ugly.. he he...

his design is always err..messy..but always interesting. :)

http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2009/4/3/north/3555753&sec=North

Abalone harvest in Balik Pulau
By CHRISTINA CHIN


TUCKED away in the sleepy hollow of Sungai Burung in Balik Pulau, Penang, is an abalone-breeding facility which is little known to the outside world.

Set up by a New Zealander, it is believed to be the only one supplying fresh, sashimi grade abalone in the northern region.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/4/3/north/abalone1.jpg

The abalone is exported to Asian countries as well as sold locally since its first harvesting last year.

“People are often surprised when they find out that there’s an abalone farm in Malaysia and even more so when they discover that it is located in Penang,” said Tangaroa Aquaculture Sdn Bhd general manager Llewellyn McGivern who owns the facility.

Having a love affair with abalone since his younger days in New Zealand, McGivern wanted to set up a farm in Asia and zeroed in on Malaysia because it is economically stable and strategically located.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/4/3/north/abalone2.jpg

“Initially, I was also considering Sabah because the quality of water there is very good but settled on Penang because here, you have all the necessary facilities and logistics which are important,” he said, adding that the farm cultivates Ezo Awabi(a Japanese cold temperature abalone species).

“We have invested millions in bringing in equipment from countries like the US, Australia, Denmark and New Zealand,” he said.

McGivern knows how to differentiate abalone from the fake ones—afterall, it is his business.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/4/3/north/abalone3.jpg

“If you have been paying anything less than RM90 for canned abalone, the deal is likely to be too good to be true.

“The rule of thumb is that if the price is cheap, there is a high possibility that it is a fake—sometimes, other shellfishes are passed off as abalone because they look similar.

“The ‘fake’ ones are tougher — the texture is rubbery unlike the abalone’s which is smooth and tender,” he said, adding that consumers should always read the fine print on the can before purchasing.

“A sure tell-tale sign are the words ‘abalone-type shellfish’,” he warned, adding that it was difficult to get fresh, quality abalone in Malaysia.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/4/3/north/abalone4.jpg

“Abalones are nocturnal and very sensitive to the environment because they are like dinosaurs that have been around for a very long time.

“These shellfish are cultivated in our climate-control room in real saltwater that’s rich in micro-nutrients. Normal water temperature is about 30°C but we have to chill it to between 15°C to 20°C and filter the water.

“The traditional method of cages in the sea and ponds does not work anymore because of poachers and effects of environmental changes like the Red Tide and haze,” he said, adding that the company currently produces about a tonne of abalone monthly with sizes ranging from 8cm to 11cm.

“It takes between four and five years for abalone to grow to this size in the wild but with our Re circulation Aquaculture System (RAS), it only takes between two-and-a-half and three years.

“We only started harvesting last year although the facility was set up about three years ago,” he said, adding that the company plans to add another seven buildings to its exciting facility.

“We are just awaiting approval from the local authorities. We have 4ha of land here to expand our facility,” he said.

McGivern said Tangaroa was currently considering the possibility of including Austra-lian abalone as well as seafood like crab and grouper.

“We may also expand to Kuala Lumpur. Besides the export market, we also want to supply to the local market.

“Because we have a farm here, our abalone is much cheaper and fresher than what you get in a can.

“Abalones need not only be a delicacy for special occasions if it is affordable,” he said.

Penang to turn into a megapolis
Saturday April 2, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/4/2/nation/8401015&sec=nation

PETALING JAYA: The Federal and state governments will jointly develop a Greater Penang Transformation Programme to unlock development opportunities within the region.

A Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) statement said a four to sixweek lab would be held with Khazanah Nasional and the state government with participants from the public and private sectors.

It said Penang, the third largest urban Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contributor after Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru, had been identified as one of the three major metropolitican areas in the country.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said while both Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru were supported by integrated projects like the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley National Key Economic Area and Iskandar Malaysia, Penang was in need of a master development programme.

“The Greater Penang lab is tasked to create a detailed implementation programme to unlock the development opportunities within the region as well as to identify and resolve potential hurdles,” the Prime Minister said here yesterday.

Najib said under the 10th Malaysia Plan, Penang had been earmarked to benefit from RM17.9bil in total investments for the upgrading of physical infrastructure to enhance access and connectivity.

“This needs to be synergised with Entry Point Projects of the Economic Transformation Programme to prime Penang as the leading urban centre in the Bay of Bengal and the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Golden Triangle,” he said.

Projects under the Plan included the expansion and upgrade of the Penang Bridge, Penang International Airport and Penang Port, and the construction of the second Penang Bridge, electrified double track and Juru-Sungai Dua bypass.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said as an act of commitment, the state government had shelved its five-year industrial development masterplan to make way for the programme.

“The state government fully endorses the initiative for the programme. We pledge to fully cooperate to ensure a successful outcome,” he said.

Penang to turn into a megapolis
Saturday April 2, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/4/2/nation/8401015&sec=nation

PETALING JAYA: The Federal and state governments will jointly develop a Greater Penang Transformation Programme to unlock development opportunities within the region.

A Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) statement said a four to sixweek lab would be held with Khazanah Nasional and the state government with participants from the public and private sectors.

It said Penang, the third largest urban Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contributor after Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru, had been identified as one of the three major metropolitican areas in the country.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said while both Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru were supported by integrated projects like the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley National Key Economic Area and Iskandar Malaysia, Penang was in need of a master development programme.

“The Greater Penang lab is tasked to create a detailed implementation programme to unlock the development opportunities within the region as well as to identify and resolve potential hurdles,” the Prime Minister said here yesterday.

Najib said under the 10th Malaysia Plan, Penang had been earmarked to benefit from RM17.9bil in total investments for the upgrading of physical infrastructure to enhance access and connectivity.

“This needs to be synergised with Entry Point Projects of the Economic Transformation Programme to prime Penang as the leading urban centre in the Bay of Bengal and the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Golden Triangle,” he said.

Projects under the Plan included the expansion and upgrade of the Penang Bridge, Penang International Airport and Penang Port, and the construction of the second Penang Bridge, electrified double track and Juru-Sungai Dua bypass.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said as an act of commitment, the state government had shelved its five-year industrial development masterplan to make way for the programme.

“The state government fully endorses the initiative for the programme. We pledge to fully cooperate to ensure a successful outcome,” he said.

like this!

Penang to turn into a megapolis
Saturday April 2, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/4/2/nation/8401015&sec=nation

PETALING JAYA: The Federal and state governments will jointly develop a Greater Penang Transformation Programme to unlock development opportunities within the region.

A Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) statement said a four to sixweek lab would be held with Khazanah Nasional and the state government with participants from the public and private sectors.

It said Penang, the third largest urban Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contributor after Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru, had been identified as one of the three major metropolitican areas in the country.Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said while both Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru were supported by integrated projects like the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley National Key Economic Area and Iskandar Malaysia, Penang was in need of a master development programme.

“The Greater Penang lab is tasked to create a detailed implementation programme to unlock the development opportunities within the region as well as to identify and resolve potential hurdles,” the Prime Minister said here yesterday.

Najib said under the 10th Malaysia Plan, Penang had been earmarked to benefit from RM17.9bil in total investments for the upgrading of physical infrastructure to enhance access and connectivity.

“This needs to be synergised with Entry Point Projects of the Economic Transformation Programme to prime Penang as the leading urban centre in the Bay of Bengal and the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Golden Triangle,” he said.

Projects under the Plan included the expansion and upgrade of the Penang Bridge, Penang International Airport and Penang Port, and the construction of the second Penang Bridge, electrified double track and Juru-Sungai Dua bypass.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said as an act of commitment, the state government had shelved its five-year industrial development masterplan to make way for the programme.

“The state government fully endorses the initiative for the programme. We pledge to fully cooperate to ensure a successful outcome,” he said.

I doubt about Penang being the third contributor of urban GDP behind Johor Bahru :ohno: :ohno: :ohno:

According to Department of Statistics Malaysia, in 2009 GDP for the State of Penang is RM 42,036 million whereas for the State of Johor (which includes JB, Batu Pahat, Muar etc.) is RM 48,287 million.

Greater Penang (Conurbation of Georgetown) encompases Penang (Penang Island, Seberang Prai), Sungai Petani and Kulim. I don't think the combined GDP of this urban conglomerate is less than that of JB.

Just my opinion...How do you guys think?! :lol: :lol: :lol:

penang become megapolis?

..

Penang to be country's third metropolis: Najib
2011/04/02
http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/Penangtobecountry_sthirdmetropolis_Najib/Article/

BALIK PULAU: The federal government is to develop Penang into the third metropolis (urban area) in the country, after the Klang Valley and Johor Baharu, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said today.

He said a committee to study and implement the plan comprised representatives from the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) and Khazanah Nasional Bhd.

"The committee will report back to the (National) Economic Council on the study," he told reporters after attending a lunch with the people in Kampung Permatang Pasir, here.

Najib, who is on a day-long visit to Penang, said development of the metropolis would step up flow of investment into Penang, and added that this was proof that the federal government did not marginalise the state.

Asked about his achievements as the prime minister after being in office for two years (to the day tomorrow), he said he realised that the people were beginning to regain confidence in the Barisan Nasional (BN) government.

The people's confidence was based on the government's success in rejuvenating the national economy through various transformation programmes, he said.

He said the government had implemented many development programmes. "It is the people's desire to see us implement the programmes that we have planned," he said. -- Bernama

PM yakin rampas Pulau Pinang
3 April 2011
http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/content.asp?y=2011&dt=0403&pub=Kosmo&sec=Negara&pg=ne_09.htm

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2011/0403/Kosmo/Negara/ne_09.1.jpg

NAJIB (duduk tiga dari kanan) bersarapan dengan orang ramai semasa
melawat Medan Selera Pasar Awam Tun Sardon di Gelugor, George Town semalam.

GEORGE TOWN – Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak yakin Barisan Nasional (BN) dapat merampas semula Pulau Pinang pada Pilihan Raya Umum akan datang berikutan terdapat angin perubahan yang berlaku di negeri itu.

Katanya, dalam tinjauan beliau ke Pulau Pinang semalam banyak pihak meluahkan kekecewaan terhadap kerajaan negeri di bawah kepimpinan semasa dan mereka mahukan perubahan.

“Suasana memihak kepada perasaan inginkan perubahan dan walaupun ia di peringkat sentimen, kita mahukan sentimen itu diterjemahkan dalam bentuk sokongan,” katanya selepas Jamuan Mesra Rakyat di Kampung Permatang Pasir di sini.

Najib berkata, ada rakyat yang membisik ke telinganya dan mengeluh bahawa golongan peniaga gerai di Pulau Pinang menghadapi tekanan dan sukar mencari rezeki sedangkan perkara seperti itu tidak pernah berlaku di bawah pentadbiran BN.

Katanya, selain itu angin perubahan juga dapat dilihat dalam beberapa pilihan raya kecil sebelum ini apabila BN bukan sahaja memenanginya, malah majoritinya melonjak.

Dewan Undangan Negeri Pulau Pinang mempunyai 40 kerusi dengan 19 dimiliki DAP, sembilan (Parti Keadilan Rakyat), satu (Pas) dan 11 (BN).

PM: Federal Govt will continue to develop Penang
Sunday April 3, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/4/3/nation/8407366&sec=nation

BALIK PULAU: The Greater Penang Transformation Programme is proof that the Federal Govern*ment has not marginalised the state.

The Federal Government, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said, will continue to help develop Penang although Barisan Nasional is not the ruling party in the state.

“Certain quarters allege that Penang is being sidelined, but this is not so,” he told a gathering of some 20,000 people in Kampung Permatang Pasir here yesterday.

Najib, who was on a day-long visit to the state, said the Federal Government had approved several projects in Penang, such as the second bridge and the expansion of the Penang International Airport to spur the flow of investments into the state.

“We will make sure Penang benefits under the Greater Penang Transformation Programme.

“It shouldn’t be the case of lembu punya susu, sapi dapat nama (getting credit for work done by others),” he said, implying that the Pakatan Rakyat-ruled state government was claiming credit for the work done by the Federal Government.

Speaking to reporters, Najib said the Federal Government was set to develop Penang into the third metropolis in the country, after the Klang Valley and Johor Baru.

He said a committee comprising representatives from the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority, the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) and Khazanah Nasional Bhd will study and implement the plan.

Najib arrived here at 9am and started a series of walkabouts, beginning at Taman Tun Sardon in Gelugor. He met more people later at the Jelutong market and the Rifle Range and Kampung Melayu flats in Air Itam.

Getting a taste of Penang food, he tucked into a serabai (sweet local pancake) at the Taman Tun Sardon market, nasi lemak at Rifle Range and nasi kandar at Kampung Melayu.

Najib also attended a closed-door meeting with some 1,000 Barisan members at the Tabung Haji Complex in Bayan Lepas.



Making Penang a logistics hub
Wednesday November 3, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/11/3/north/7335482&sec=North

THE Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) is committed to making Penang the next logistics hub and a dynamic import and export gateway for the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER).

NCIA chief executive Datuk Redza Rafiq cited the second Penang bridge, Penang International Airport expansion, Penang Sentral Integrated Transport Hub, Penang Port expansion and Ipoh-Padang Besar double tracking rail projects that would make Penang a main hub for export.

“As such, we strongly believe that Penang has great potential to be developed further into a modern, integrated and green transport and logistics hub.

“This will benefit not only the state but the NCER as a whole,” he said at the inaugural NCIA Public Forum entitled ‘Revisiting, Reviving and Refocusing NCER: Implications on Transport and Logistics’ at Wawasan Open University in Penang on Thursday.

The forum, jointly organised with Socio-Economic and Environmental Research Institute, attracted about 200 participants from government agencies, industry players especially from the logistics industry and university students.

Redza said transport and logistics were crucial and function as key enablers to transform the region into an economic powerhouse.

“They enhance connectivity networks and linkages to spur domestic and international business activity, trading, investment and tourism, besides supporting the industrialisation process.” he said.

With improved transport and logistics services across industries, goods, services and people could move faster domestically and globally, he noted.

“This in turn would help to attract more investment in the NCER, making it a region of choice not only for investors but also tourists, high net worth individuals and skilled talent,” he said.

He added that the Federal Government had taken steps to improve public transportation such as the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) to carry out initiatives under the National Key Result Area (NKRA) for urban public transport.

“The people can thus look forward to improved public transportation facilities and services in the near future,’ he added.

Associate professor Dr Anthony Chin from the National University of Singapore, who is also an Associate Professor of Transport Academy and principal researcher with the university’s Centre for Transportation research, was the forum’s guest speaker.

He spoke on subjects concerning Malaysia’s trade competitiveness in relation to logistics and transport facilitation covering maritime, aviation and land modes.

He also suggested ways for the NCER to boost growth, such as by cultivating high value cash crops like the virgin coconut oil, which was highly valued in urban and export markets.

Penang and its hinterland has got all the ingredients to become a great metropolis. With Haatyai, Phuket, Medan, Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur just within 300 km ++ away, Penang is certainly a strategic location for something big.

I doubt about Penang being the third contributor of urban GDP behind Johor Bahru :ohno: :ohno: :ohno:

According to Department of Statistics Malaysia, in 2009 GDP for the State of Penang is RM 42,036 million whereas for the State of Johor (which includes JB, Batu Pahat, Muar etc.) is RM 48,287 million.

Greater Penang (Conurbation of Georgetown) encompases Penang (Penang Island, Seberang Prai), Sungai Petani and Kulim. I don't think the combined GDP of this urban conglomerate is less than that of JB.

Just my opinion...How do you guys think?! :lol: :lol: :lol:

i do think the same way as well.... JB is only hyped up... it's not like JB is more than penang.. it's the government's intention to make JB the second.. HAHA of coz guys JB is the only strong KOTA for BN... it's easier to transform penang into a megalopis than JB.. even singapore is so near to JB, the proximity did not make much improvement in JB al this years... it's the place and society which matters... Penang is way more matured and always ready for bigger transformation.. but federal govt's sentimental nonsense doesn't have the heart to contribute to a KOTA of opposition (Perasaan Dengki)...

It's funny that it is basically an accidentally made early subliminal statement that Penang will be made only a 3rd spot eventhough it has potential to be second.. sort of favouritism... see the way fed govt diverted and planned IDR when selangor and kl woke up to support opposition...
All tactical...
BN's strong fort and port is JB..

Making Penang into the 3rd metropolis? Huh? Why does Penang has to be "made" when it already is a metropolitan area comprising of Georgetown, Butterworth, Kulim, Sungai Petani...:nuts:

He is probably thinking of creating another Putrajaya-type community which is sooooo artificial anyway. Let the cities grow and merge naturally into a contiguous area which then is really defined as a metropolitan area. :)

Oh yes, forgot to mention that JB is considered a part of the metro area that includes Singapore according to Wiki and World Gazetteer, even if the urban area spreads across an international border, state line, county/prefecture line. Another example is San Diego (US) with Tijuana (Mexico), FYI...

from 2nd to 3rd...so pathetic..

RM60mil for Jalan Masjid Negeri
By KOW KWAN YEE Tuesday April 12, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/4/12/north/8461085&sec=North

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/4/12/north/masjid%20negeri.jpg
Rapt attention: Participants listening to the briefing given by Hew
during the 'Decongesting Jalan Masjid Negeri' forum in George Town

TWO underpasses and two flyovers will soon be constructed along Jalan Masjid Negeri in Penang under a RM60mil project to relieve traffic congestions on the island’s main artery.

The underpasses will enable road users to turn right into Jalan Delima and Jalan Besi under phase two of the Traffic Improvement Plan of Jalan Masjid Negeri.

A one-lane flyover will also be constructed over the existing autopont flyover along Jalan Masjid Negeri linking Lebuhraya Batu Lanchang to Jalan Masjid Negeri for traffic heading towards the State Mosque.

Another flyover will connect Jalan Scotland to Jalan Batu Gantung.

This was revealed by PINTAR Jurutera Perunding which has been appointed as the consulting firm for the phase one and phase two projects by the Penang Municipal Council.

Its consulting engineer Hew Yoon Leong provided the details during a local government forum ‘De-Congesting Jalan Masjid Negeri’ at the Caring Society Complex yesterday.

Also present at the briefing were state Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow, Penang Municipal Council president Patahiyah Ismail and Seberang Prai Municipal Council president Maimunah Mohd Sharif and representatives from non-governmental organisations.

Hew said the first phase of the project would entail the upgrading of Lorong Batu Lanchang and Lebuhraya Thean Teik intersection by providing a free-flow left-turn for traffic from Lorong Batu Lanchang to Lebuhraya Thean Teik.

He said the single lane next to the State Mosque interchange would be upgraded into two lanes.

“We are going to shift the concrete perimeter fence of the State Mosque to construct the additional lane to enable motorists using Jalan Masjid Negeri to turn left into Jalan Air Itam,” he said.

Hew said the other projects in phase one are the upgrading of the Jalan Tengku Kudin roundabout to provide free-flow ‘U’ turn for traffic heading back to the State Mosque direction.

Over at Jalan Bagan Jermal an additional lane would be constructed on both sides of the road to cater for heavy traffic flow especially during school dismissal time.

He said a bicycle lane would be constructed along Gottlieb Road from the Jalan Kebun Bunga intersection to the Jalan Burma intersection.

“Phase one of the project will take about 16 months. Phase two will begin after that,” he said.

Hew said tender for the first phase costing RM25mil was called several months ago.

“The successful bidder will be announced soon,” he said.

i do think the same way as well.... JB is only hyped up... it's not like JB is more than penang.. it's the government's intention to make JB the second.. HAHA of coz guys JB is the only strong KOTA for BN... it's easier to transform penang into a megalopis than JB.. even singapore is so near to JB, the proximity did not make much improvement in JB al this years... it's the place and society which matters... Penang is way more matured and always ready for bigger transformation.. but federal govt's sentimental nonsense doesn't have the heart to contribute to a KOTA of opposition (Perasaan Dengki)...

It's funny that it is basically an accidentally made early subliminal statement that Penang will be made only a 3rd spot eventhough it has potential to be second.. sort of favouritism... see the way fed govt diverted and planned IDR when selangor and kl woke up to support opposition...
All tactical...
BN's strong fort and port is JB..

historically, i think the economic prosperity of penang/jb has to do more w/ geography than politics... PR only being in penang for 3 years vs. more than 40 for penang. BN people is smart enough to know that politics may differ, progress in penang is more important no matter who helms komtar. even LGE sided with BN (federal) government development plan because he knows that bickering about politics is one thing, but not getting any money for development is not helping anybody...

jb is next to singapore (one of the richest nation per capita in the world). economy thrives on being a border town, like shezen/san dieago... over the years, jb should grow bigger than it is now if not for some counter productive politics (the previous sultan was known as an anti-singaporean, mahathir is also, singaporean imped JB growth by certain economic polices and also by being difficult w/ malaysia...) but the fact remains, jb will have a significant economy due to the singapore factor.

penang, center of gravity for northern states but look at it... kedah, penang and perak together has around 3-4 million people while jb-singapore has more than 8 million people. from population factor alone, jb economy will trump over penang regradless of politics. improving links between singapore-jb (mrt link, 3rd brigde) will definitely increase the economic activity/prosperity on that area.

penang does have the potential to be the next hong kong (small island, high population density, better public transport) but i like to see what kind of policies that the government will do to support it's growth. hong kong has positive non-intervention, while penang has.........?

Wednesday April 13, 2011
Feting fashion in style
By JOSEPHINE JALLEH
josephine@thestar.com.my


A GLITZY, star-studded fashion extravaganza will form part of the exciting array of cultural events that will be showcased during the month-long George Town Festival in July.

The ‘Peranakan Penang: The Gala Dinner’ would feature Malaysian-born and internationally acclaimed fashion designers such as Zang Toi and Yeohlee as well as international model Ling Tan.

Festival director Joe Sidek said the desig-ners would be crafting 13 pieces of garments each to highlight Peranakan jewellery.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/4/13/north/m1.jpg

“We have invited global jeweller Mouwad to be part of the international show, which would see the attendance of VVIPs, royalty, industrialists and local luminaries,” he said in an interview.

The fashion show will be among hundreds of programmes lined up to celebrate the third anniversary of George Town’s listing as a Unesco World Heritage Site.

The celebration is a joint effort by the state government, Penang Municipal Council, George Town World Heritage Incorporated, Penang Global Tourism and various communities.

There will also be a Peranakan Food Trail which would see the participation of local chefs, restaurants, hotels and the Peranakan community in a food fair, cooking competition, classes and demonstrations.

Joe added that a glamorous dinner party called ‘Dinner @ 8 - The Ultimate Dinner Party’ would be held at the E&O Hotel in conjunction with the George Town Festival.

“Eight international chefs would be cooking at this private event and it would be given an hour’s airtime on Astro’s Asian Food Channel, which has 40 million viewers and aired in nine million homes.

“It will be the grandest dinner party which will put Penang on the international food map,” he said.

He added that 100 foreign guests would be invited to the event.

He also called for the participation of 12 families living in the inner city of George Town to let their homes be turned into a living museum to showcase their family portraits during the festival.

“We will first look at their family pictures in their albums, then go on to print, frame and curate the pictures as well as assist the families in having an open house,” he said.

Other events would include a workshop and gala concert by Promusica, a monologue play starring actress Tan Kheng Hua (from Phua Chu Kang series), film screenings, exhibitions, display of photographic works, street celebrations, talks, a musical tribute to P. Ramlee and a closing concert.

Corporate partners, agencies, institutions, schools and performers are invited to take part in the festival to showcase the best of Penang to the world.

For details, call Joe at 04-2616308, email info@georgetownfestival.com or visit www.georgetownfestival.com.

^^ Tesco will be opening soon in Tanjung Bungah

historically, i think the economic prosperity of penang/jb has to do more w/ geography than politics... PR only being in penang for 3 years vs. more than 40 for penang. BN people is smart enough to know that politics may differ, progress in penang is more important no matter who helms komtar. even LGE sided with BN (federal) government development plan because he knows that bickering about politics is one thing, but not getting any money for development is not helping anybody...

jb is next to singapore (one of the richest nation per capita in the world). economy thrives on being a border town, like shezen/san dieago... over the years, jb should grow bigger than it is now if not for some counter productive politics (the previous sultan was known as an anti-singaporean, mahathir is also, singaporean imped JB growth by certain economic polices and also by being difficult w/ malaysia...) but the fact remains, jb will have a significant economy due to the singapore factor.

penang, center of gravity for northern states but look at it... kedah, penang and perak together has around 3-4 million people while jb-singapore has more than 8 million people. from population factor alone, jb economy will trump over penang regradless of politics. improving links between singapore-jb (mrt link, 3rd brigde) will definitely increase the economic activity/prosperity on that area.

penang does have the potential to be the next hong kong (small island, high population density, better public transport) but i like to see what kind of policies that the government will do to support it's growth. hong kong has positive non-intervention, while penang has.........?

agreed, but how come all this while din focus on JB... al this years JB is quite slow even when it is near to singapore....many abandoned projects.. bad response and sluggish.... Even now only the hype abount iskandar is lurking... those investor like midde eastern about 50% pulled back.... so far they only built danga bay... i went there and is was super dead with only cheap skate pakaian which tak laku... hehe... singaporean only go there for cheaper shopping... thats all.... malaysian government's biggest mistake is focusing all development on klang valley.. why can't they balance it up by distributing wealth and investment to all capital cities like other countries do... do u think by only developing klang valley alone can achieve 2020 or developed country status.. this is what happens if we let old rotten brains to rule the country... too much favouritism and sentiments political..

Enter the electric trishaw in Penang
By FONG KEE SOON Friday April 15, 2011
Photos by ASRI ABDUL GHANI
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/4/15/north/8485946&sec=North

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/4/15/north/electric1.jpg
Tour on wheels: Wintle getting a free ride on Abdul Latiff's trishaw which is
powered by an electric motor (below) the trishaw runs on lithium polymer battery

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/4/15/north/electric2.jpg

AN electric motor-assisted trishaw (e-MAT) was the centre of attraction at the launch of the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery’s 46th anniversary celebration.

Developed by H2E Technologies Sdn Bhd, a company that specialises in green technology and alternative energy, e-MAT is an innovation to help trishaw pedallers reduce the cycling load while carrying passengers.

“Realising that many trishaw pedallers in George Town are elderly people, we decided to develop the e-MAT to provide assistance while cycling,” said the company’s assistant manager Mohd Farizal Jemain.

He said the e-MAT uses lithium polymer battery which is commonly found in many electronic devices and can last up to 7km when fully charged.

“Pedallers will find the electric motor useful when they need to accelerate or when going uphill,” he said, adding that the e-MAT cost about RM6,000 each. A normal trishaw cost RM4,000 each.

The e-MAT battery is rechargeable using home electrical circuit, with three to four hours required for a full charge.

Trishaw pedaller Abdul Latiff Mohd, 64, counts himself lucky to receive a sample unit of the e-MAT, complimentary of H2E Technologies Sdn Bhd last month.

“Personally, I think the e-MAT will be useful for travelling long distances. Otherwise, a normal trishaw is still good enough for use in the city area such as George Town,” said Abdul Latiff who has been pedalling trishaw since he was 13.

Nevertheless, he feels it is a good feature for trishaw pedallers especially those who are aged and with reduced stamina.

Welsh tourist Sian Wintle, 25, who received a free ride at the museum grounds from Abdul Latiff, said she had been looking forward to a trishaw ride.

“I think it is a good way to see George Town up close,” she said.

A host of activities have been lined up for both young and old at No. 57, Macalister Road in George Town where the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery is located.

These include competitions in teen graffiti, children’s art, coconut bashing, story-telling, designing of the state museum’s lorry and sculpturing.

Visitors can also enjoy traditional games, screening of short films in 3D, face and hand paintings as well as demonstrations of how to make handicraft, ceramic and batik painting.

The public can take part in a History Quiz and put to test their historical knowledge about the country.

They can also sign up to become a member of the Friends of Penang State Museum and Art Gallery which offers benefits such as discount on merchandise and update on the museum’s latest activities.

Among those spotted at the museum yesterday were civil servant Abdul Aziz Ahmad, 51, and his son Ahmad Fadhil, 18.

“The exhibits are all very interesting but there should be more display of real items or artefacts instead of just information boards and photos,” Abdul Aziz said.

The anniversary celebration, the museum’s first, is being held from 10am to 8pm daily until Sunday. Entry is free during the celebration which was launched by Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas yesterday.

For details, visit the museum’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/penang-statemuseumandartgallery or call 04-2613144.

Construction, renovation industries to gain RM3bil
By DAVID TAN Friday April 15, 2011
http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/4/15/business/8462296&sec=business

GEORGE TOWN: The RM2.94bil in gross sales value (GSV) of housing projects to be launched this year is expected to generate about RM3bil worth of jobs for the construction and renovation industries in Penang.

Penang Master Builders and Building Materials Dealers Association (PMBBMDA) deputy president Lim Kai Seng told StarBiz that about RM2bil would benefit the local construction industry, while the remaining RM1bil would go to the renovation sector.

“It is usual for the owner of a unit to spend about 30% of the property's value on renovation.

“This is why about 30% of the RM2.94bil GSV or about RM1bil will benefit the local renovation industry,” Lim said.

StarBiz had reported that some 2,441 units of residential and commercial properties with an estimated RM2.94bil GSV would be launched on the island this year.

The south and south-west of the island will see some 1,275 units of residential and commercial properties launched with an estimated gross sales value (GSV) of RM1.45bil, while the north-east district will see the development of about 1,166 units of properties valued at RM1.49bil.

The commercial component in the south and south-west district is about 156 units with a GSV of RM221mil.

In the north-east, the commercial component will comprise 308 serviced suites and shop lots with a gross sales value of RM160mil.

Meanwhile, PMBBMDA president Vincent Ong said for 2010, the total value of construction contracts awarded in Penang was RM3.67bil, compared with RM4.5bil in 2009, quoting the latest Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) report.

“In 2010, there were 326 projects, comprising 71 government and 255 private projects with a construction value of RM3.67bil, compared to 356 projects, comprising 92 government and 264 private projects, in 2009,” Ong said.

Ong said this year the local construction industry in Penang should perform better, as there would be more government contracts to be tendered out.

On April 19, the CIDB was scheduled to hold a Customer Day at the PMBBMDA headquarters in Penang Chinese Town Hall, Ong said.

“The purpose of the event is to disseminate the latest information on the construction industry to our members. It is also to give them the opportunity to renew their CIDB licences. The event will also serve as a platform for our members to make enquiries about CIDB,” he said, adding that PMBBMDA had 130 members.

With any metropolitan areas, there is one major core or prime city. The others are just going along as secondary cities/towns/etc.

That said, Georgetown, Penang WILL always be the primary city in the northern region. It cannot be said that way for JB...too bad, so sad. Simply because there's always Singapore around the corner acting as the prime! No matter even if the population of JB eventually eclipses that of its richer and more prominent neighbor in the future...JB WILL always be secondary in that region. :)

Lab sessions to steer Penang transformation
By Marina Emmanuel Published: 2011/04/16
http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/articles/jalatp/Article/

http://www.btimes.com.my/articles/jalatp/pix_middle

GEORGE TOWN: The proposed Greater Penang Transformation Programme (GPTP), which is likely to include parts of Kedah and Perak, may study how to improve the agriculture supply chain and logistic efficiencies, among others.

Under the 10th Malaysia Plan, Greater Penang has already been earmarked to benefit from a total investment of RM17.9 billion to upgrade physical infrastructure to enhance access and connectivity.

"This needs to be synergised with the Entry Point Projects of the Economic Transformation Programme to prime Penang as the leading urban centre in the Bay of Bengal and the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Golden Triangle," Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala told Business Times.

Jala is also chief executive officer of the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu), which will arrange lab sessions to tackle the GPTP.

Pemandu will do this with the help of Khazanah Nasional Bhd and the Penang state government.

"We expect the four to six-week Greater Penang Transformation Programme (GPTP) lab to begin as soon as possible and have commenced preparations to determine the scope of the lab, organisational roles, processes and participants," he said.

The GPTP may also look at how to boost tourism and education.

"Medical travel and the George Town-Butterworth waterfront development will be a huge boost to the tourism sector," he added.

In education, the lab should review the current and future needs for human capital in the region and seek new initiatives by the private sector to address those needs.

Agencies that may be involved include the Economic Planning Unit, the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority, along with state and local authorities, such as the Penang State Economic Planning Unit and Penang Development Corp.

Others may include infrastructure and utilities firms, learning institutions like Universiti Sains Malaysia, heritage and public-interest bodies, along with industry and business groups such as those involved in property, tourism and industry.

Ferries and terminals need makeover
Monday April 25, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/4/25/north/8531550&sec=North

THE Penang ferry terminals and the ferries need a facelift.

The trouble is those who can do something about this probably cross the channel in their cars and don’t see the ugly side of it. Those on the receiving end of the unpleasant sights and poor service are the foot passengers.

The Weld Quay overhead bridge, the taxi area, the ugly stalls and the walkways on both sides need a major makeover.

Perhaps, there is a need to install escalators on both sides of the ferry terminal.

The only escalator on the Butterworth side is always breaking down. The waiting areas at both sides also need better seats and fans.

The ferries also need to be clean. At times, the windows are smeared with bird droppings. I’ve noticed that the ferry sides, ceilings and seat areas are also dirty.

The Penang Hill railway and the ferry service are unique to Penang. They need to be properly maintained at all times. Please start now.

RM4bil roads for Penang
By IAN MCINTYRE
ianm@thestar.com.my
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2011%2F4%2F25%2Fnation%2F8547039&sec=nation

GEORGE TOWN: The state government has announced plans to implement two new road projects costing some RM4bil to reduce traffic congestion on Penang island by up to 40%.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the first project was a 4.2km inner ring road connecting Gurney Drive to the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway (formerly Jelutong Expressway) using a combination of semi-tunnel and elevated road.

“The other is a 4.6km-long tunnel road linking Paya Terubong and Bandar Baru Air Itam to the expressway,” he said.

Lim said the state was inviting a Request For Proposal (RFP) for the two projects, adding that major contractors were encouraged to submit their designs through the RFP process.

“The projects, which will be awarded via open tender, do not have a commencement date but the state wants the project to be implemented quickly,” he said at a press conference yesterday.

Lim said the state had come up with the projects because roads here were getting more congested due to rapid development.

“I hope the Federal Government and the private sector will support the projects. It may be costly but they are crucial in managing traffic congestion on the island.

“The projects, which came about after a series of studies over two years, will be incorporated into the Penang Transport Master Plan,” he added.

Penang Municipal Council senior traffic engineer A. Rajendran said the two new roads could alleviate congestion by up to 40% along the local road network.

George Town Anew
Posted by Thinkproperty.my News Team in The Star, News

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/23/north/017755748.jpg
Air-conditioned conduit: The pedestrian bridge linking 1st Avenue (right) and Komtar in George Town.

THE Penang government will adopt the Business Improvement District Scheme (BIDs) to rejuvenate the inner city.

State Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the scheme was popular in many countries but would be the first for the state.

“BIDs will turn Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (Komtar) and its surrounding area into a premier shopping destination and a bustling cultural, business and social center.

“We are looking into enhancing connectivity between the commercial enterprises there by eventually linking Komtar to shops along Macalister Road, Campbell Street and Kimberly Street with underpasses and walkways.

A Long And Winding Road
Posted by Thinkproperty.my News Team in The Star, News

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/18/north/high.jpg
Thorough check: A worker studying the progress of work done on the Teluk Kumbar-Pekan Genting road.

THE road straightening and widening project between Teluk Kumbar and Pekan Genting in Balik Pulau will now only be completed in November.

The contractor appointed to revive the abandoned project has been given another two-month extension. This is the third extension for the company.

State Transport, Utilities and Public Works Committee chairman Lim Hock Seng said the new completion date was necessary due to adjustments to the construction plans.

“The project is now 65% completed,” he said.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/18/north/high2.jpg
Shorter route:
Vehicles crossing a temporary bridge as work is being
done to complete the Teluk Kumbar-Pekan Genting road.

Home For The Homeless
Posted by Thinkproperty.my News Team in The Star, News
Extract from The Star (08/03/11)

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/8/north/017589737.jpg
"Strategic location: Space will be allocated within the
department's premises to build a shelter for the homeless."

PENANG’s "homeless will soon have a roof over their heads at a prime location in George Town that houses horses and quarantined livestock."

"This is because the state government has decided to allocate space at the Veterinary Services Department premises on Gurdwara Road for the setting up of the first public shelter for the homeless in the state."

"State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said statistics showed that the northeast district (George Town) had the most number of homeless people."

"“We found many homeless in Komtar, Lorong Kulit, and Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling."

Home For The Homeless
Posted by Thinkproperty.my News Team in The Star, News
Extract from The Star (08/03/11)

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2011/3/8/north/017589737.jpg
"Strategic location: Space will be allocated within the
department's premises to build a shelter for the homeless."

PENANG’s "homeless will soon have a roof over their heads at a prime location in George Town that houses horses and quarantined livestock."

"This is because the state government has decided to allocate space at the Veterinary Services Department premises on Gurdwara Road for the setting up of the first public shelter for the homeless in the state."

"State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said statistics showed that the northeast district (George Town) had the most number of homeless people."

"“We found many homeless in Komtar, Lorong Kulit, and Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling."

good move as well..some unfortunate old ppl need this helps..

a caring move but won't help... what about a government project like medan selera or boutique and handcraft selling complex with a nearby quarters... at least there's help + motivation... this type of help will not give drive and can be demotivating. it's like supporting 'homeless'ness...then more people become lazy and more people will ditch their elderly.... i dunno why malaysian always have to come up with terrible solutions....
and the funny part is 'at a prime location'... creating eyesore... waste of land.. waste of money... waste of effort... govt could buy up some old vacant flats in paya terubong and refurbish for these homeless.... 2 opposite things... eradication of poverty and housing for homeless......

a caring move but won't help... what about a government project like medan selera or boutique and handcraft selling complex with a nearby quarters... at least there's help + motivation... this type of help will not give drive and can be demotivating. it's like supporting 'homeless'ness...then more people become lazy and more people will ditch their elderly.... i dunno why malaysian always have to come up with terrible solutions....
and the funny part is 'at a prime location'... creating eyesore... waste of land.. waste of money... waste of effort... govt could buy up some old vacant flats in paya terubong and refurbish for these homeless.... 2 opposite things... eradication of poverty and housing for homeless......

Why not you send your comment to LGE. He is accessible through his facebook.

:)

Free Parking At MPSP Lots For The Disabled
Posted by Thinkproperty.my News Team in The Star

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/11/23/north/016859998.jpg
Special space: Developers who provide designated car parking lots for the
disabled persons, like this one at Sundway Carnival Mall, will get priority in
council's approval for OC.

Disabled motorists in Seberang Prai will be allowed to park their vehicles in all Seberang Prai Municipal Council (MPSP) car parking areas for free.

CouncilorTeoh Seang Hooi said the council would issue special stickers to the disabled motorists by the end of next month.

“We also plan to allocate at least five designated parking lots in every car parking area for the disabled.

“This is to make it easier for them to park their vehicles and they need not worry about jostling with other motorists for parking space,” he said in an interview.

Sungai Pinang
http://www.upislam.com/images/81930842913890134801.jpg
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/21914153

Boy scout and team give old bridge facelift
2011/06/02 By Paul Toh
http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/3aei/Article/

http://www.nst.com.my/articles/3aei/single
Josiah Steinkamp (right) with his father Karl
working to give the overhead bridge a facelift.

GEORGE TOWN: American eagles in Penang helping to tidy up the environment? No, its not our feathered friends but a group of "eager beavers" from Dalat International School.

These seventh to 12th graders were supporting their friend, an American boy scout of Troop 22, who had taken up the project of giving a makeover to the overhead bridge along Jalan Tanjung Bunga as part of his Eagle Scout assignment.

The overhead bridge between Dalat School and Copthorn Hotel needed a facelift, and the boys aged between 13 and 18 years decided to lend a hand to their fellow student.

Team leader and boy scout, Josiah Steinkamp, 15, said it is one of the requirements of a scout to carry out a project, get the right approval and lead a team to finish a project to attain Eagle Scout status.

Steinkamp said he was given approval by the Municipal Council to carry out his project, but he had to source his own paint.

"We were able to scrape off the old paint from about half the bridge and put on a coat of primer the first day," he said to Northern Streets at the scene.

Armed with jet-sprays, buckets, scrapers and brushes, 21 students as well as teachers from Dalat School participated in the project on the first day to help make the pedestrian bridge look nicer.

Steinkamp said he expected to finish the project in the middle of June as they could only work on it during the weekends.

"We will also be partnering the senior class of Dalat International School to help pay part of the costs," he added.


Tanjung Bungah residents can look forward to a spruced-up overhead bridge come mid-June.

Spot the advertisement everywhere at one of the mrt station in Singapore. I think credit should go to the state government.

http://i587.photobucket.com/albums/ss315/dpmy05/IMG_0267.jpg

Spot the advertisement everywhere at one of the mrt station in Singapore. I think credit should go to the state government.

http://i587.photobucket.com/albums/ss315/dpmy05/IMG_0267.jpg

Perhaps it is a good way to lure the thousands of Penang-born professionals to return home from Singapore.....

JETTY UPGRADE
2011/06/05 By Looi Sue-Chern
http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/2two/Article/

http://www.nst.com.my/articles/2two/single
Datuk Seri Noh Omar (right) with Bagan Umno chief Datuk Seri Abdul Latif
(second from left) surveying the Ujong Batu jetty.
— Picture by Mohamad Danial Mohamad Saad

Fishermen will soon be able to dock at the Ujong Batu jetty during low tide

BUTTERWORTH: The woes of the Ujong Batu jetty for fishermen in Bagan Dalam here will soon be over.

The jetty near the Sungai Prai mouth will be 30.5m longer when its expansion is completed.

This means fishermen returning from their day's work will be able to dock at the jetty.

They used to experience difficulty approaching the jetty at the river bank when docking at low tide.

But thanks to a RM100,000 allocation from the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry, the fishermen can now look forward to more rewarding fishing trips.

Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Noh Omar, who announced the allocation during a visit to the Ujong Batu fishermen jetty here last Saturday, said a longer jetty across the river was necessary to allow fishermen to dock their boats.

"We are able to help the fishermen in Ujong Batu because of an additional allocation of RM46 million this year for jetty upgrades and expansions nationwide," he said.

He said the ministry had already spent about RM100 million so far upgrading fishermen jetties nationwide in efforts to help fishermen associations expand their operations into seafood-related businesses as well as agro-tourism to generate higher incomes for their members.

Noh said fishermen jetties today should not be just fish-landing piers but developed into premises that generate extra income and other benefits.

"Some associations organise computer classes at their jetties and set up shops for members to sell seafood products such as belacan and fish balls.

"Such initiatives must be encouraged to help fishermen become more enterprising," he said.

Noh also praised the Ujong Batu fishermen for taking the initiative to set up a floating restaurant at the jetty by the Sungai Prai, which is enjoying brisk business.

HOLIDAY Inn Resort
http://www.booked.net/hotel/28488/Holiday-Inn-Resort-Penang-Penang_overview.html

http://i0.bookcdn.com/data/Photos/LargePhoto2/63/6389/6389613/Holiday-Inn-Resort-Penang-photos-Hotel.JPEG

Fresh new look for hotel
Wednesday June 8, 2011
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/6/8/north/8848297&sec=North

HOLIDAY Inn Resort’s Penang’s RM11mil ongoing renovation is aimed at re-positioning the hotel to increase its occupancy rates from next year.

Its general manager Stella Jacobs said in an interview that 161 rooms at the beach wing had been completed and full completion was expected in December this year.

“We will start with the coffee house, the lobby lounge and lobby area soon.

“The renovation for the 189-room Ferringhi Tower wing is currently also ongoing,” she said.

Jacobs said that for this year, the hotel expected to maintain an average of around 60% occupancy rate, more or less the same as last year, due to a softer market.

“Arrivals from the Middle East have been slower as a result of the (political) turmoil in the region.

“We are also getting fewer arrivals from the UK and the rest of Europe due to the challenging economic climate there.

“Furthermore, since Ramadan is in Aug this year, the Arab tourists are cutting short their stay so they can go home to prepare for the fasting month,” she said.

Tourists from the Middle East comprise about 30% of the Holiday Inn Resort Penang clientele, while arrivals from UK and Europe comprise about 20%.

“The remainder includes visitors from Australia and Singapore as well as the domestic market,” she said.

On the renovation exercise, Jacobs said that each room would sport a new contemporary design and a soothing fresh colour.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) televisions, iPod docks and broadband facilities will be installed.

“The renovation will also enhance our 16 children’s suites which are equipped with Playstation 3 (PS3) equipment. We are the only hotel in Batu Ferringhi with suites for kids,” she said.

The renovation exercise is part of the Holiday Inn in-house refresh programme, a global multibillion dollar campaign that started in 2007.

It was aimed at re-launching the world’s most recognised hotel brand.

The highlight of the campaign involved the launch of the new logo for the Holiday Inn brand name in 2007.

GREEN PLANS
2011/07/01 By Phuah Ken Lin
http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/02pgrifpark/Article/

http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/02pgrifpark/pixgal1
Rifle Range Flats devoid of a park would be a drab concrete jungle.
An open space near Penang’s Rifle Range flats will be turned into
a lush community park

http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/02pgrifpark/pixgal2
An artist’s impression of the park. — Pictures by Phuah Ken Lin

GEORGE TOWN: A new green lung will be created at the densely populated low-cost Rifle Range Flats with the introduction of a community park.

The park, to be known as Rifle's Garden, will feature abundant lush greenery equipped with a variety of public amenities.

Some 0.7ha of open space is earmarked for the linear park which is set to transform the surroundingsinto a soothing garden.

Among the family-oriented landscape features are a maze garden, sheltered areas for sitting and a wellness zone.

The RM100,000 project will be financed through private funding initiatives.

Residents are ecstatic about thelong overdue community project at the 70-year-old flats.

Trader Mohd Sabri Khamis, 43, is eager to see the project completed as soon as possible.

"The green lung will offer a respite to working residents at the end of their hectic day.

"I will take my family to the park to unwind and make use of the rest and recreational activities," Mohd Sabri said.

Another resident, R. Mathyvanan, 17, was happy to finally see more greenery in the vicinity of his concrete jungle.

"My long wait for a linear park at my residence will be over soon.

"I will go for brisk walks and jog in the park during my study breaks," said Mathyvanan.

Kebun Bunga assemblyman Jason Ong said the earth works on the private funded project will start next month.

Ong said the park is conducive for healthy living among the residents.

He said a police beat base would be set up within the park to ensure the safety of the park users.

Ong added that another 500 parking lots would alsobe created next to the linear park.

my grandma's place last time...... down there got some real good snacks and munchies.....

The truth about investment into Penang



1) Steps taken by investors before they decide where to locate their
investment:


a) Identification of possible sites where issues such as costs of
production including availability of human resource, land price, proximity
to market, intellectual property protection, political stability, governance
culture, support by government agencies and government incentives are
important criteria to look into.


b) Time is of the essence as technology changes quickly. Further, all
manufacturing processes need to be linked up into the overall supply chain.
Thus dead line needs to be adhered to strictly.


c) Once decision is made on the location, execution and implementation
on the ground will proceed with speed.


d) All in all, if any deal is to be struck, it will be done within 12
months.


2) It is ridiculous to suggest that it takes years to make an
investment decision in this modern age. By then the technology will be
obsolete, the product will not fit into the supply chain for the overall
manufacturing process and it is against the Just In Time (JIT) philosophy
the manufacturing world is practicing currently.


3) It is novel for me to learn that Malaysia Industrial Development
Authority (MIDA) takes up to 5 years to make a decision on incentives to be
given to potential investors. The MIDA that Invest Penang is working with
make decision in weeks and not years.


4) So far there has not been any known investor withdrawing from Penang
after the recent change in government. On the other hand, there are big
investors returning to Penang or increase their investment into Penang after
the fall of the previous indecisive government.


5) In short, to say that investment decision takes months to be made is
sleep talking. To say that MIDA is indecisive in making incentive decision
is both erroneous and unfair.

Lee Kah Choon
Chairman, Executive Committee
Invest Penang

SMOOTHER RIDE SOON
Cobblestones that are causing discomfort to road users will soon be tarred over.
2011/09/06 By Phuah Ken Lin
http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/2tdb/Article/

http://www.nst.com.my/articles/2tdb/single

The much-criticised cobblestone-paved Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling will be resurfaced, thanks to a public survey

GEORGE TOWN: The dreadful bumpy rides for thousands of motorists plying an uneven section of Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, within the heritage enclave, will be over with road resurfacing works to start soon.

The good news came to light after positive public feedback from the Penang Island Municipal Council (MPPP) on tarring the much-criticised section of the road paved with cobblestones since 2006.

MPPP engineering department spokesperson confirmed that the resurfacing works mooted at the inner city would proceed.

The spokesman said the public survey had exceeded the minimum requirement, with 84 per cent of them voting for the re-tarring work as of last Friday.

"The resurfacing work will go on as planned," he said.

"We will recondition the road surface to ease and smoothen the rides for motorists."

The week-long street poll by MPPP closed yesterday.

The cobblestone road has been under intense criticism from road users as they claimed the rough surface was damaging motorcycles tyres.

Many motorists also believed that the bumpy rides were to blame for affecting their vehicles' wheel balancing and alignment system.

One motorist, Lim Ching Yang, was elated to learn about the overdue road resurfacing.

"I was forced to send my car to workshops for repair due to constant tyre-alignment problems," Lim said.

Another motorist, Mohamad Jiman Abdullah, lauded the move by MPPP to upgrade the road.

"It is high time that MPPP solves motorists' protracted woes once and for all," he said.

"I am looking forward to a more comfortable driving experience soon."

MPPP had sought the approval of residents and traders as well as the public to resurface the 800 metres of road stretching from Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling to Lebuh Cina and Jalan Kampung Kolam.

The road had been surfaced with cobblestone as part of the RM6 million gold bazaar project to spruce up the historical site that is part of the heritage core zone.

The road tarring will cost about RM100,000 and work is expected to commence in three months.

penang's current govt is looking forward to achieving the 2020 mission.... and they are being realistic as they are looking at the future.... not just berangan angan... muyiddin says that tunnel is not needed for now.... but by 2020 it will be needed.... whats the point of building something when it is necessarily needed... thats lack of preparation like klang valley BN attitude.... they only plan things when they need something desperadely or when it's too late.... now Penang govt is preparing a tunnel now itself coz when the kepala batas and bertam region cybercity 2 becomes self-contained it will have population influx and then the state will be needing a connection between the northen prai corridor and georgetown....in fact creating a connectivity now itself will definitely boost development to the northern corridor of prai...SO WHATS WRONG OF BEING PREPARED... takkan be like klang valley BN nonsense... baru nak bina MRT when it's really late already... with a lot of public outcry.... most of penang's megaproject like the light, world city, southbay and seri tanjung pinang are targeted to fully complete by almost 2020 which is also in line with the completion of the 8 bil. infrastructure network.... i think it's a matured and feasible long-term plan.... it could be PERFECT...