Source: Bernama

After nearly two decades of delays, the long-awaited Kampung Bagan Serai development project in Permatang Pauh is now moving closer to completion. The Penang Regional Development Authority (Perda) has confirmed that the project, first planned almost 20 years ago, is set to resume following the signing of a new joint venture agreement on Tuesday.

Perda chairman Shaik Hussein Mydin said the 5.5-hectare site will be developed into 117 low-cost apartment units to relocate original Kampung Bagan Serai residents, whose land was acquired in 2008. The agreement was signed between Perda’s wholly owned subsidiary, Perda Ventures Corporated Sdn Bhd (PVISB), and JKP Sdn Bhd, marking a key step in reviving the stalled project that had faced technical issues after land acquisition.

Despite the prolonged delay, Shaik Hussein stressed that residents were not neglected. All 117 unit owners have continued to receive monthly rental payments, along with compensation from Perda, until the project is completed.

The development plan is expected to be submitted for approval by June next year. Construction of the first phase, which requires about two to three acres of land, is targeted for completion within five years. Each low-cost unit will measure 750 sq ft and be priced at RM42,000, making it accessible to eligible residents.

Once the relocation of residents is completed and units are handed over, the project will proceed to its next phase. This will include the development of commercial units as well as 299 medium-cost apartment units, aimed at supporting the area’s longer-term growth.

Penang Bumiputera Development Council chairman and JKP board chairman Khalid Ramli welcomed the renewed collaboration, expressing appreciation to Perda and PVISB for reviving the long-delayed project and ensuring smoother cooperation between government-linked agencies.