Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow recently visited the Penang International Logistics Aeropark (PILA), a joint venture between the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), highlighting its role in enhancing the state’s logistics capabilities.

Chow, who also chairs PDC, said the project is aimed at developing a new cargo terminal to support Penang’s growing industrial sector, particularly the semiconductor and electrical and electronics (E&E) industries. He noted that demand for advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, continues to drive industrial growth, leading to increasing production and export needs.

He emphasised that the project addresses a longstanding gap in cargo handling capacity. Without adequate facilities, goods from Penang have had to be transported to other hubs such as Singapore. With PILA, cargo can be handled locally, improving efficiency and reinforcing Penang’s position as a regional manufacturing hub.

The project is being undertaken through a dedicated joint venture company, PILA Sdn Bhd, following approvals from both PDC and MAHB boards. The agreement was formalised in April 2026, with funding supported by PDC and contributions from the federal government.

Spanning 42 hectares with an estimated development value of RM1 billion, PILA has already secured leasing interest from both local and international logistics operators. The development aligns with Penang’s Vision 2030 and the State Structure Plan, which includes the expansion of Penang International Airport to accommodate future growth.

Construction is currently underway, with earthworks and soil treatment in progress. The first phase, comprising a Free Commercial Zone air cargo warehouse, is expected to be completed by 2029. Upon completion, this phase alone is projected to add capacity for 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

In the long term, PILA is expected to handle up to 500,000 tonnes of cargo per year by 2050, supported by more than two million square feet of warehouse space. A formal launch of the project is currently being planned, and is expected to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a proposed mixed-use development in Bukit Mertajam, Seberang Perai Tengah. The site involves Parcel A, located adjacent to Lot 10001, covering several land parcels.

As usual, the RFP is open to companies registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) or organisations registered with the Registrar of Societies (ROS), provided they are fully Malaysian-owned. Participation also requires attendance at a mandatory briefing and site visit.

Registration for interested parties is open from 4 May 2026 until 18 May 2026, with the briefing scheduled to take place on 22 May 2026 at KOMTAR. The session will be followed by a site visit on the same day.

The RFP documents will be available for purchase from 25 May to 3 June 2026 at a fee of RM3,000 per set. Submissions must be made in both hardcopy and softcopy formats and delivered to the LPNPP office at KOMTAR. The closing date for submissions is set for 24 August 2026 at 12 noon.

Artist Impression

Penang is set to strengthen its agrotourism sector with the development of the Penang Durian Valley @ Relau (PDV), an integrated durian-based hub scheduled for completion in April 2027.

According to Chow Kon Yeow, the project is a rebranding of the existing Relau Agriculture Centre into a comprehensive eco-tourism destination. The development will feature new buildings, recreational infrastructure, landscaped green spaces, and improved parking facilities to enhance visitor experience.

Once completed, PDV will serve as a research and development (R&D) hub, educational centre, and data collection point for various durian varieties in Malaysia. The initiative is expected to position Penang as a leading state in agriculture driven by innovation and research.

Spanning a total of 61.4 acres, the project is currently being developed in phases, with the ongoing phase covering 22.3 acres. As of 30 April 2026, construction progress has reached 24%.

Chow noted that PDV has the potential to become a central collection hub for local durian varieties, with plans to cultivate up to 300 types from across the country in future phases. Currently, Penang is home to around 40 durian varieties that are popular among both locals and international visitors, many of whom travel specifically to experience the state’s renowned durians.

Adopting an “experiential tourism” concept, PDV aims to offer visitors a unique and immersive durian-themed experience while creating economic opportunities for orchard owners and related industry players.

The project will also leverage Penang’s technological expertise, often associated with its reputation as Malaysia’s “Silicon Valley”, to advance modern agricultural practices.

Chow also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for funding support through the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), which has been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition.

Previously, the state government had organised a design idea competition for the project, with selected concepts incorporated into the current development plans.

An 800-metre stretch of Jalan Persiaran Pantai Sinaran in The Light City has been officially renamed in honour of the late Tan Sri Chin Fung Kee, recognising his significant contributions to the state’s development.

The renaming ceremony was officiated on Thursday by Chow Kon Yeow, who said the decision was approved by the state executive council on Feb 25. He described the move as a mark of the highest respect for Chin’s legacy, particularly his role in shaping Penang’s infrastructure and advancing engineering education.

Chin is best known for his involvement in the design of the Penang Bridge, a landmark project that transformed connectivity between the island and mainland. His expertise also extended to foundation works for Komtar, as well as his contributions to the establishment of the engineering faculty at Universiti Malaya.

Beyond Malaysia, Chin gained global recognition for “Chin’s Method”, an innovation that revolutionised piling techniques. He also pioneered the use of natural rubber bearings for seismic resistance, now adopted internationally.

His leadership within professional bodies, including the Institution of Engineers Malaysia, and honours such as fellowship with the UK’s Institution of Civil Engineers, further underscore his impact on the engineering field.

The state government hopes this tribute will inspire future generations to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

About Jesselton Courtyard

A luxury residential project by Berjaya Land in the Penang Turf Club area. It features 32 units of Four-Storey Zero-Lot Bungalows (6,649 – 9,054 sq.ft.) with an indicative priced from RM6.48mil, and 207 units of 1½ – 2 Storey Condominiums (2,734–5,167 sq.ft.) with an indicative priced from RM2.87mil. Averagely around RM1,000 per sq.ft. It is surrounded by affluent neighbourhoods of Jesselton and Pulau Tikus and close to the Youth Park and the Botanical Garden.

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