The Penang state government remains committed to facilitating the implementation of the Juru-Sungai Dua Elevated Highway project, with Package 1 of the strategic traffic dispersal project now recording 40.79% physical progress.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said construction works for Package 1, covering the route from the Juru Toll Plaza to the Sungai Dua Toll Plaza, are progressing on site and are expected to be completed by October 2027.

Meanwhile, Packages 2 to 5 are currently undergoing evaluation and tender processes. The tender process for the four packages is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with construction targeted to begin early next year.

Chow said land acquisition and utility relocation works would be carried out concurrently to minimise delays and ensure the project progresses smoothly.

The project is expected to benefit around 200,000 road users daily along the Juru-Sungai Dua corridor by easing congestion and improving traffic flow.

The project has also received close attention from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, with regular monitoring and monthly meetings held to address challenges and implementation issues. The overall project is targeted for completion by the end of 2030.

According to Chow, the elevated highway adopts a traffic segregation concept that separates local traffic from highway traffic, similar to the approach implemented in Jelapang, Ipoh.

He said the concept had helped improve traffic movement and control in Jelapang, and expressed hope that a similar impact could be achieved along the Juru-Sungai Dua corridor.

The state government is also assisting with land acquisition matters. The process has reached Section 8, with the relevant matter expected to be presented by the Federal Department of Director General of Lands and Mines (JKPTG) Penang on September 17.

Chow added that relocation requirements would be relatively limited due to the availability of existing reserves. Based on current information, only seven food stalls are affected, with no large-scale resettlement involved.

With an estimated cost of RM3 billion, the Juru-Sungai Dua Elevated Highway is a high-impact infrastructure project aimed at addressing congestion along one of the busiest sections of the North-South Expressway.

Upon completion, the project is expected to improve connectivity and traffic flow not only for Penang residents but also for motorists travelling along the north-south highway corridor.

A 6-acre freehold prime land parcel next to Gurney Bay and Andaman Island will be offered for public auction on Oct 7, 2026, with a reserve price of RM313.632 million.

Located at P.T. 858 (Plot 7A), Section 2, Bandar Tanjung Pinang, Northeast District, Penang, the land carries a reserve price of RM1,200 per sq ft. The auction will be held at 11am at Level 51 of KOMTAR.

The auction is part of the Penang state government’s efforts to support the completion of the Ayer Itam-Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway project, which is being undertaken by Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (CZC).

As at Aug 31, 2026, the road project had achieved 92.46% physical progress, while financial progress stood at 81.69%.

Unlike conventional projects funded through cash payments to the contractor, the project is financed through a land-swap arrangement, whereby land parcels are transferred based on claims for completed works.

CZC has so far claimed land worth RM695.977 million. Of this, 11.6183 acres valued at RM427.657 million have already been transferred, while land worth RM225.768 million that has been claimed remains to be transferred.

The state government said CZC requires assistance to monetise the land through sales to generate cash flow and ensure the project can be completed by April 2027.

As part of this arrangement, the state has agreed to auction the 6-acre Plot 7A, which forms part of CZC’s land claims for works already completed. Proceeds from the sale will be shared between the Penang state government and CZC.

Located within the thriving Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Rimba Ville @ Kulim Utama is a freehold residential township by OIB Group that blends modern family living with a nature-inspired environment. Guided by the concept of “Tropical Home Living”, the development is designed to offer residents a peaceful retreat where tropical landscapes, practical home designs and everyday conveniences come together.

Beyond its nature-inspired setting, Rimba Ville also benefits from a highly accessible location. The township is positioned just 8km from the Butterworth–Kulim Expressway (BKE Highway), offering convenient access to surrounding townships. Residents are within close proximity to schools, healthcare facilities, shopping destinations and recreational amenities, including Kulim Central, Kulim Golf Resort, KHTP Sports Complex and Kulim Hospital. Located within the Kulim Hi-Tech Park itself, Rimba Ville is neighbouring with major technology and manufacturing companies such as Intel, Infineon, AT&S, First Solar and Fuji Electric.

Planned as a thoughtfully designed township comprising 918 freehold homes, Rimba Ville places strong emphasis on creating a balanced and sustainable living environment. More than 9 acres of landscaped greenery and seven thematic parks have been incorporated into the masterplan, offering residents ample open spaces for recreation, relaxation and community interaction. Tree-lined boulevards, eco ponds, jogging trails, sports facilities, children’s playgrounds and community parks encourage an active outdoor lifestyle while reinforcing the development’s tropical living concept. Rather than simply providing residential units, the township is envisioned as a neighbourhood where families can enjoy a healthier, more connected way of life.

Rimba Ville comprises spacious 2-storey terrace homes with a typical lot size of 20′ x 70′, each offering a generous 2,117 sq.ft. built-up area. Every home features four bedrooms and three bathrooms, providing ample space for growing families. Practicality is equally prioritised through an open-plan layout, a fully extended kitchen, a second family hall, fibre connectivity and parcel drop box. These features are designed to enhance day-to-day convenience while allowing homeowners flexibility in adapting their living spaces to changing family needs.

The current launch of Rimba Ville also includes 1-storey semi-detached and cluster houses having 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The garden provided in these houses gives the option to those owners who want some extra space to relax, entertain, or do any activity outside their house. This garden can be used as a personal space for those owners who like to have some extra room for their growing family.

Security and long-term liveability are also central to the development. Rimba Ville is a fully guarded and gated community equipped with perimeter fencing and controlled access for greater peace of mind. Underground utility cabling further enhances the streetscape by reducing visual clutter while improving safety and infrastructure reliability. Together, these features contribute to a clean, secure and family-friendly neighbourhood environment.

Market response to the project has been encouraging, with Phase 1 fully taken up. Following this success, the developer has officially launched Phase 2, offering another opportunity for prospective homebuyers to be part of this growing township. The homes are priced from RM570,000 onwards, an affordable option for those seeking a spacious freehold landed property within the rapidly expanding Kulim growth corridor.

Combining a strategic location, practical family-oriented homes, abundant green spaces and a secure community setting, Rimba Ville @ Kulim Utama offers a lifestyle that balances modern convenience with the tranquillity of tropical living, making it an appealing choice for both owner-occupiers and long-term property investors.

The first phase of the Pan Island Link 2A (PIL2A) highway has reached 29.85% completion, with construction progressing slightly ahead of schedule as the project moves towards providing a direct connection between Penang island and Silicon Island.

Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the project was 0.42% ahead of schedule as of the end of August.

The RM420 million first phase comprises a 1.5km road and marine bridge connecting the junction at Jalan Permatang Damar Laut directly to Silicon Island.

According to Zairil, the marine bridge is being constructed using a balanced cantilever beam structure. Construction of the substructure, including pile caps and columns, is currently progressing in both the marine and land sections in Permatang Damar Laut.

The project requires 260 T-beams for its superstructure, of which 25 had completed the casting process as of Aug 31.

Zairil said the highway would be opened to the public in stages, with the first section of the marine bridge targeted for completion and opening to traffic in December 2028. Full completion of the PIL2A project is scheduled for June 2029.

He said the steady progress reflected the commitment of the Penang state government, project developer and contractors, while stressing that site safety, operational controls and environmental management remained key priorities throughout construction.

The state government, through Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd (PIC), will continue to closely monitor the project to ensure construction proceeds smoothly and that any challenges are addressed promptly.

Upon completion, the first phase of PIL2A is expected to serve as a permanent access route to Silicon Island via Jalan Permatang Damar Laut, while supporting future development and sustainable urban growth on Penang island.

PIC chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus said the project management team would maintain close oversight of contractor operations to ensure the works were carried out responsibly and transparently.

As the PIL2A alignment passes through residential areas, the project’s safety and health team has also maintained regular communication with nearby communities, particularly when traffic diversions or road closures are required.

Farizan said close cooperation with the local community had helped ensure that construction-related processes proceeded smoothly.

Eden At Botanica CT – Construction in progress

As Malaysia’s population ages and families place greater emphasis on retirement planning, the demand for purpose-built senior living communities continues to rise. Meeting this need is Eden at Botanica CT (EABC), an integrated retirement living community located within the 300-acre Botanica CT township, Penang. Designed to combine independent living, wellness, and healthcare support when needed, EABC offers a holistic environment where retirees can enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

A New Approach to Retirement Living

At EABC, while primary residents must be at aged 60 and above, ownership can be at any legal age for property ownership. This unique approach gives families greater flexibility, enabling adult children or family members to purchase a unit for their parents or loved ones and ensuring an enjoyable lifestyle specifically designed for healthy and independent ageing.
Offering more than a place to stay, EABC is designed around the three core pillars: independent living, wellness, and access to healthcare. The resort living community concept encourages social interaction, physical activity, and overall wellbeing, allowing seniors to continue living life on their own terms while having access to support services whenever needed.

Integrated Healthcare Support

A key advantage of Eden at Botanica CT is its proximity to healthcare services such as the nearby Care Residence, and an up-coming Selgate Private Hospital, located approximately three minutes away by car. Together, these facilities create an integrated ecosystem that provides residents with healthcare-related and support services, whilst giving their families the peace of mind.

Purpose-Built for Comfort and Safety

Every residence at EABC has been thoughtfully planned with accessibility and care in mind. All units feature step-free internal layouts, and each unit is fitted with three emergency assistance buttons, enabling residents to quickly call for help whenever required.

The development is also suitable for persons with disabilities (OKU) and provides a welcoming environment for visiting family members, making it a flexible and inclusive retirement community.

Move-In Ready Convenience

To make the transition into retirement living easier, each apartment is delivered fitted and furnished, allowing residents to move in with minimal preparation.

Wellness and Lifestyle Services

• EABC’s residents enjoy a variety of services and activities designed to enhance physical, mental, and social wellbeing. These include:
• 24/7 carer support through the Care Station.
• Daily activities and exercise programmes organised by EABC’s Fun Club Wellness and Recreation Team
• Weekly doctor visit at the clubhouse.
• Shuttle services within Botanica CT township.
• Scheduled shuttle services to Queensbay Mall and Gurney Plaza, subject to availability.
• Computerised medical record management at the Care Residence.

Residents may also choose from optional services available at minimal charges, including housekeeping, laundry services, meal arrangements, personal training, hospital companionship, technical support, and hourly care aides. These allow residents to customise their level of support according to their individual needs and lifestyle preferences.

Construction Progress

Construction of Eden at Botanica CT continues steadily. Tower A and Tower B have achieved approximately 35% to 40% completion, with Tower A’s structure reaching the 16th floor and Tower B at the 11th floor. Meanwhile, construction of the Care Residence is advancing according to schedule, with completion targeted for December 2026.

A Community Designed for the Future

Eden at Botanica CT represents a new benchmark in retirement living by combining comfortable homes, wellness programmes, healthcare accessibility, and community engagement within a single integrated development. It offers retirees the opportunity to enjoy an active, independent, and fulfilling retirement lifestyle while providing families with reassurance that support and care are always close at hand.

For those seeking a future-ready retirement solution in Penang, Eden At Botanica CT presents an attractive opportunity to invest in comfort, wellbeing, and peace of mind.

Visit the Eden at Botanica CT Show Unit

Address:
No. 32 & 32A, Jalan Sungai Air Putih
Bandar Baru Air Putih 11000 Balik Pulau, Penang

Opening Hours:
Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Weekdays, Weekends and Public Holidays)

For Enquiries:
Handphone: 012-963 5015/ 473 5015/ 673 5015 or 017-311 2699
Sales Gallery: 04-866 9066
Website: https://www.edenatbotanicact.com.my/