The proposed reclamation and landfill rehabilitation project in Jelutong, near Karpal Singh Drive, is still pending approval from the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow confirmed yesterday.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Batu Kawan Public Market, Chow stated that the public feedback period for the project ended on June 30, and all responses have been submitted to the Department of Environment (DOE) for review.

“Any development must first secure EIA approval. If it’s not granted, we can submit an appeal with improvements. The submission deadline is February 26 next year,” he said.

The project, jointly undertaken by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) and PLB Engineering Bhd, aims to rehabilitate the decades-old Jelutong landfill, which has been in use since the 1970s.

Chow noted that state officials, including Local Government and Town Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng, have engaged with both PLB and PDC following a recent meeting with the Protect Karpal Singh Drive Action Committee.

The project includes a profit-sharing model, with portions of reclaimed land allocated to the state. However, any downscaling of the project based on public concerns may require the state to forgo part of its share.

“We will consider all feedback carefully and address any concerns if the project receives approval,” Chow added.

ADVERTISEMENT