A reclamation project has been planned at Jelutong as part of efforts to rehabilitate the aging landfill site that has been in operation since the early 1970s. This initiative, led by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) in collaboration with PLB Engineering Bhd, is aimed at addressing environmental concerns, optimizing land use, and preparing the area for future development.

Project Details and Landfill Rehabilitation

The Jelutong landfill, which has long exceeded its capacity, has been a pressing environmental issue due to potential pollution risks. To mitigate this, the state government entered into a RM1 billion agreement with PLB Engineering Bhd in 2020 to rehabilitate and develop the site. This includes the removal of waste, sorting and recycling of materials, and the eventual conversion of the land into a viable development area.

As part of the project, PLB is tasked with identifying a new disposal site for construction waste and marine clay while ensuring the smooth rehabilitation of the landfill. A waste-to-energy plant has also been proposed as part of the long-term sustainability efforts, turning refuse into power and reducing the environmental footprint of waste management in the state.

Covering approximately 65 hectares, the project involves landfill rehabilitation, cleaning, waste sorting, recycling, and reclamation. The reclaimed land, located north of the landfill and adjacent to Karpal Singh Drive, will serve as a working zone for waste management, environmental restoration, and eventual urban development.

Integrated Transportation and Sustainability Approach

The layout plan of the project is integrated into the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, aligning with the principles of Transit Oriented Development (TOD). The planning of traffic and transportation systems is designed to meet future population and transportation needs in a sustainable manner. The project aims to be sustainable from social, economic, and environmental perspectives, with different transportation systems implemented in stages as required.

Additionally, a multi-modal transport hub is planned, incorporating a cable car and water taxi system to enhance connectivity between the Mainland and various parts of Penang Island. This integration aims to improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and support the long-term urban development strategy for the region.

Environmental Impact Assessment and Public Concerns

The Department of Environment (DOE) initiated the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process in early February, with the public allowed to review the assessment from February 6 to March 7 and submit written feedback by March 22. However, many residents in the area were unaware of the consultation period, leading to calls for an extension.

A pro tem committee, the Protect Karpal Singh Drive action committee (ProtectKarpal), comprising over 150 residents, a mosque committee, and a private school, raised concerns about the project’s potential impact on marine life and increased activity near residential neighborhoods. The group argued that residents should have sufficient time to assess the project’s implications and voice their opinions.

In response, the DOE announced an extension of the feedback submission deadline by 14 days, moving it to April 5.

The rehabilitated and reclaimed land at Jelutong is strategically located about 3km from George Town’s core area and is considered prime for urban expansion. While the gross development value (GDV) has yet to be finalized, it is estimated to reach billions of ringgit, making it one of the most significant land developments in Penang.

Previously a sanitary landfill, the site has only been used for construction and garden waste disposal since 2002, with municipal waste now redirected to Pulau Burung near Nibong Tebal. The reclamation project, if successfully implemented, will not only resolve the landfill issue but also create new economic opportunities for the state.

About Savana @ Utropolis

This is the fourth phase of Paramount Property’s Utropolis development at Batu Kawan. Located along Jalan Cassia Barat 2, adjacent to Sensasi and Sinaran Residences. It is less than 5 minutes’ walking distance to Design Village outlet mall and UOW MALAYSIA KDU Penang University College, with easy access to Penang Second Bridge and North-South Expressway. This development features 522 residential units with 8 levels of car parking podium.

*Photo taken in Feb 2025

Find out more about Utropolis @ Batu Kawan:

• Phase 1 – Sensasi Commercial & Residential Suites (Completed)
• Phase 2 – Suasana Residential Suites (Completed)
• Phase 3 – Sinaran Avenue & Sinaran Residences (Completed)
• Phase 4 – Savana (On-going)

The redevelopment of Penang Hill Astaka has reached a significant milestone as it enters its second phase, marking a major step towards transforming the iconic food hub into a modern and sustainable dining destination.

Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng explained that the project is structured into three phases. The first phase, which involved constructing a temporary Astaka, was completed and has been operational since February 25 this year. This initial step set the foundation for the comprehensive transformation of the site.

The second phase, now underway, involves demolishing existing structures to make way for the main building’s construction. The tender process for this next phase is expected to open by the end of March, inviting qualified contractors to bid for the project. Once finalized, construction is scheduled to commence in June 2025, with full completion expected by the end of 2026.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for Phase Two, accompanied by key state officials, including state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.

Chow highlighted that the RM20 million redevelopment, fully funded by the state government, aims to elevate Penang Hill Astaka into a world-class dining destination. The new Astaka will feature refined dining spaces, upgraded facilities, and a modern aesthetic catering to both local and international visitors. With increasing tourist numbers, the upgrade is necessary to accommodate higher demand while ensuring comfort and sustainability.

The project is also aligned with other key initiatives on Penang Hill, including the Penang Hill Cable Car project and the proposed upgrade of the old quarters in Strawberry Valley. These developments, outlined in the Penang Hill Summit Area Concept Master Plan, are designed to accommodate anticipated growth in visitors while preserving the area’s Unesco Biosphere Reserve status.

Sustainability is a key focus of the redevelopment. The new Astaka will maintain the existing site’s footprint and adhere to Green Building Index (GBI) certification standards. Features such as a rooftop viewing deck, improved waste management systems—including a new garbage centre and food composter room—enhanced ventilation, and expanded storage and washing facilities will ensure better efficiency and environmental responsibility.

To enhance visitor experience, additional amenities such as a dedicated baby room, wheelchair-friendly and senior-friendly facilities, and expanded restroom facilities will be introduced. The total space will increase by 52% from 20,316 to 30,989 sq ft, nearly doubling the seating capacity from 280 to approximately 530.

During the redevelopment, PHC has relocated vendors to the temporary Penang Hill Food Alley at Dataran Bukit Bendera to ensure business continuity. Once completed, the upgraded Astaka will further strengthen the area’s role as a key attraction, offering a diverse and enhanced dining experience for visitors to Penang Hill.

The Penang state government has opened a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a redevelopment project in Mak Mandin, covering over 10 acres of land with decades-old flats. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the area, introducing modern and sustainable development while enhancing the living conditions of the local community.

The registration of interest for the RFP has been open since 17 March 2025 and will close on 4 April 2025 before noon. Interested parties must ensure timely registration to be eligible for participation.

A briefing session and site visit have been scheduled for 10 April 2025. Attendance for both is mandatory to qualify for the RFP, as it provides crucial insights into the site conditions and project expectations.

The RFP documents will be available from 10 April 2025 and can be obtained from Kaunter LPNPP, Level 3, Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR). The final submission deadline is 9 July 2025, and only fully Malaysian-owned companies that attend both the briefing and site visit will be eligible to participate. Failure to meet these requirements will result in disqualification from the RFP process.

Proposed redevelopment area

The highly anticipated My Ideal Homes Photo Contest is back for its 8th edition!

Organised annually by Ideal Property Group, this photography competition invites talented photographers across Malaysia to showcase their creativity and stand a chance to win exciting cash prizes.

This year, in response to growing enthusiasm and numerous requests, Ideal Property Group is thrilled to introduce a brand-new category: Mobile Photography. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an avid mobile shooter, this is your opportunity to capture stunning visuals and gain well-deserved recognition.

The 2025 contest will now feature three categories: Architecture Charm, Drone Shot and Mobile Photography. Participants can submit photographs featuring landscapes or architectural elements within any Ideal Property Group’s development.

The competition runs from today to 20 June 2025, with free participation and unlimited submissions per category, though each contestant can only win one prize. Judging will be based on relevance to the photography category, uniqueness, originality, and creativity. The list of winners will be announced live at the award ceremony, expected to be held at 1st Avenue Mall Penang in July or August.