Construction of the Penang LRT Mutiara Line is progressing steadily, with the Bandar Sri Pinang and Penang International Airport (PIA) stations emerging as the most advanced sections of the project since its groundbreaking in January 2025.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, accompanied by state executive councillor for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Zairil Khir Johari, recently visited both sites to review construction progress and receive updates from Civil Main Contractor 1, SRS Consortium.

According to Chow, the designs for the stations are currently undergoing final approval by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), with approval expected in the near future. Once approved, the public will have a clearer idea of the appearance and features of the stations.

The RM16.8 billion Mutiara Line, which forms the backbone of the Penang Transport Master Plan, will span 29.67 kilometres and comprise 22 stations. The line is designed to improve connectivity between key locations on Penang Island and the mainland while helping to ease traffic congestion.

At the Penang International Airport station site, construction of the viaduct and station piers is progressing, with five piers already visible. The airport station is planned as an important gateway for international travellers and will include a dedicated link bridge connecting directly to the airport’s new terminal. It will also provide direct rail access to destinations such as the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, Komtar and Penang Sentral in Butterworth.

Meanwhile, works at Bandar Sri Pinang have moved into a more advanced stage. The station foundation and columns have been completed, while six piers are currently under construction. Installation of crossheads, the horizontal concrete structures that support the station framework, is expected to begin soon.

Located within a densely populated township, the Bandar Sri Pinang station is expected to serve nearby residential developments and improve access to Persiaran Karpal Singh and surrounding commercial areas. Access points on both sides of the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway are intended to enhance connectivity between communities and businesses.

Chow noted that construction activities are expected to intensify during the second half of 2026 as the project enters the superstructure phase. As a result, some temporary traffic disruptions are anticipated, particularly with the implementation of traffic management measures and the gradual closure of selected lanes along the 23.7-kilometre alignment between Komtar and Silicon Island.

Pier construction is currently underway at 14 locations, including Permatang Damar Laut, Gelugor, SPICE, East Jelutong, Macallum and the area near Cecil Residensi. Of the three critical traffic management zones identified for the project, the first at the Jalan Tengah–Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah junction was implemented in early May, with two more scheduled for the second half of the year.

About Scott @ Logan

A mixed commercial and residential development by Advance Golden Properties Sdn. Bhd. located along Jalan Logan in the heart of George Town, directly opposite Logan Ville apartment. Less than 2km from KOMTAR and surrounded by amenities within a 5-minute drive, the project combines the refurbishment of an existing 2-storey heritage building with the construction of a new 36-storey serviced apartment tower offering 311 residential units, supported by an automated car parking facility.

Find out more about Scott @ Logan

Penang’s industrial sector continues to strengthen its position as one of Malaysia’s key economic drivers, supported by growing demand for modern industrial spaces, strategic connectivity, and integrated business ecosystems. Rising to meet this demand is Northern TechValley @ BKE, a RM1.3 billion freehold industrial park in Seberang Jaya developed by Suling Hill Development Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between AME Elite Consortium Berhad and Majestic Gen Sdn Bhd. Spanning 176 acres, Northern TechValley @ BKE marks AME Elite’s first integrated industrial park expansion beyond Johor.

Strategically located alongside the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE), the development offers seamless access to major transportation networks including the North-South Expressway, Penang Port, Penang Bridge, and Penang International Airport. The project is situated approximately 7km from Bukit Mertajam, 11km from Kulim, 16km from Penang Port NBCT, and 35km from Penang International Airport, making it highly attractive for logistics, manufacturing, and supply chain operations.

Further enhancing accessibility is a dedicated over RM30million, 413-metre flyover bridge providing direct connectivity to the BKE. This infrastructure investment reflects the project’s commitment to efficient industrial mobility and long-term operational convenience.

More Than Just Industrial Spaces

Northern TechValley @ BKE redefines modern industrial development by integrating sustainability, innovation, and eco-conscious design into a future-ready industrial ecosystem. As a GreenRE Certified development and building, it incorporates a range of green building strategies focused on energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental performance.

The development features sustainable design elements including reflective glass to reduce heat transmission, translucent sheets to maximise natural daylight, and ridge ventilators to enhance natural airflow and improve heat dissipation within factory spaces. In addition, a rainwater harvesting system is implemented to support water efficiency and sustainability.

Beyond its industrial functionality, Northern TechValley @ BKE introduces a distinctive “Industrial Garden Landscape” concept that seamlessly integrates greenery within the industrial environment. This approach creates a more balanced and environmentally conscious workspace, harmonising nature with industrial operations while fostering a sustainable and future-ready industrial hub in Northern Malaysia. From planning and design to construction and delivery, our one-stop built-to-suit solutions, we provide a hassle-free service, ensuring every step is managed seamlessly.

Each standard unit is thoughtfully designed with a 9-metre high production area, providing ample space to support high-capacity manufacturing operations and future business expansion. The ground floor is engineered with a floor loading capacity of 20kN/m², complemented by covered loading bays equipped with motorized dock levellers to ensure efficient logistics and loading activities.

In addition, the first-floor management office is designed with a column-free layout, offering greater flexibility for workspace planning. The space can also be configured to accommodate distribution centres, production assembly areas, or other operational requirements to suit diverse business needs.

Type A – 1½-Storey Detached Factory (approx. 1 acre)

• Gross Floor Area: approx. 31,512 sq. ft. to 44,151 sq. ft.
• Land Area: approx. 45,629 sq. ft. to 61,637 sq. ft.

Type B – 1½-Storey Detached Factory (approx. 2 acres & above)

• Gross Floor Area: approx. 59,687 sq. ft. – 68,467 sq. ft.
• Land Area: approx. 80,213 sq. ft. – 102,344 sq. ft.

Show Unit is Now Open For Viewing

The first phase of Northern TechValley @ BKE comprises 1½-storey detached standard factories across more than 20 acres. The show unit was recently launched and is now available for viewing by appointment.

For enquiries or reserve a private viewing today, call +60 19-775 0966 or visit www.northerntechvalley.com.my/

Map: Northern TechValley @ BKE Sales Office
Address: 35, Jalan Sungai Dua Utama 1, Taman Sungai Dua Utama, 13800 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang

SkyWorld Development Berhad (“SkyWorld” or “the Group”) today unveiled SkyWorld 2040, the Group’s 15-year Long-Term Strategic Plan (LTSP), which will guide the Group’s next phase of growth towards its Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG) of becoming a Top 30 Property Developer in Southeast Asia by 2040.

The strategy builds on the Group’s on-track execution of its pre-IPO mid-term target to launch RM4.6 billion in Gross Development Value (GDV) by 2026 and sets a clear roadmap for sustainable expansion over the next 15 years.

SkyWorld 2040 is structured into three consecutive five-year phases. Under the first phase (FY2027–FY2031), the Group aims to achieve RM1 billion in Profit After Tax (PAT), supported by a target of RM12 billion GDV launches and RM10 billion in sales over the five-year period.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Lee Chee Seng, said:

“When we embarked on our IPO journey, we set a clear mid-term goal and remained disciplined in its execution. As we approach the completion of that milestone, SkyWorld 2040 represents the next chapter of our growth journey. It provides a long-term roadmap to scale our business, strengthen our capabilities, and create sustainable value for all stakeholders.”

To achieve its first-phase target, SkyWorld will focus on three key growth engines:

Firstly, ‘Go For Launch’ – accelerating development launches with a target of RM12 billion GDV over the next five years to drive sales growth and earnings expansion.

Secondly, +1 SEA Market Entry – strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia with entry into additional selected markets, building on its existing Vietnam presence, subject to product-market suitability and long-term strategic alignment.

Thirdly, New Product Innovation – leveraging its full residential portfolio comprising the Awani Series, SkySignature Series, and X-Premier Series, while introducing the new S-Housing Series to expand access to quality and affordable urban living, particularly within the B40 segment, the largest addressable market.

“Our first five-year plan is centred on doing what we do best, building quality homes for people who aspire to live in cities. Through disciplined execution, a diversified product strategy, and technology-driven innovation, we believe we can achieve our RM1 billion PAT milestone while laying a strong foundation for future regional expansion,” Lee added.

A key enabler of SkyWorld 2040 will be the adoption of Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) technology. The Group is currently establishing its first PPVC manufacturing plant in Penang, with SkyWorld Pearlmont in Seberang Jaya set to be the first project to implement the technology. Through PPVC, SkyWorld aims to improve construction speed, quality consistency and ESG performance, while building a scalable development platform that can support future affordable housing initiatives and regional expansion opportunities.

As part of its long-term vision, SkyWorld intends to progressively expand beyond Malaysia into selected Southeast Asian markets with strong population and demographic growth, supported by a scalable business model and technology-enabled development capabilities.

SkyWorld 2040 reflects the Group’s confidence in the long-term fundamentals of urbanisation, housing demand, and sustainable city development. The Group remains committed to delivering quality homes, building thriving communities, and generating long-term value for shareholders.

SkyWorld Pearlmont: SkyWorld’s Penang Debut

SkyWorld is making its Penang debut with SkyWorld Pearlmont, its first residential project in the northern region, located in Seberang Jaya, an established township on Penang mainland with existing amenities including hospitals, shopping malls and schools that support immediate liveability for families, working professionals and multi-generational households.

A defining feature of SkyWorld Pearlmont is its use of PPVC technology, which improves build precision and quality consistency. The development is planned to achieve a QLASSIC score of 85%, above the national average, and comes with a 10-year leak-proof warranty and a fixed maintenance fee of 18 sen per square foot, offering homeowners greater long-term cost predictability. The project is delivered under the Rumah Bakat Madani Scheme through a joint development with the Penang Development Corporation.

Find out more about Skyworld Pearlmont.

Source: Google Street View

The proposed underpass connecting Jalan Mount Erskine and Burma Road is expected to commence construction in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending final approval and funding disbursement from the federal authorities.

The approximately 700-metre-long underpass is designed to improve traffic flow along one of Penang Island’s busiest road corridors. The tunnel entrance will be located near the junction in front of Kwangtung & Tengchow Association Funeral Parlour on Jalan Mount Erskine, while the exit will emerge near Penang Adventist Hospital along Burma Road.

The project, estimated to cost RM330 million, will be jointly funded by the federal government and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), with each party contributing half of the total cost. Land acquisition for the project has reportedly been completed, while preparations for the tender process are awaiting the necessary approvals from the relevant federal agencies.

According to a recent report by Kwong Wah Yit Poh, the construction period is expected to take between four and five years, with completion targeted for the first quarter of 2030.

One of the key features of the project is the construction method, which is expected to allow traffic on the existing road surface to continue operating during much of the tunnelling works. While temporary traffic management measures and lane adjustments may be required during the early stages of construction, the underground excavation itself is not expected to require the full closure of the affected roads.

The project’s main engineering challenges are expected to involve the relocation of existing underground utilities, including water pipes, power cables and telecommunications infrastructure. This phase alone may take up to 18 months to complete. Another major component involves the construction of an effective drainage system to prevent water accumulation within the underpass.

Once completed, the underpass is expected to provide an alternative route for motorists travelling between Mount Erskine and Burma Road areas, helping to improve traffic distribution along a corridor that regularly experiences heavy congestion during peak hours.