Source: The Star

The completion date for the second package of the Air Itam–Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway (LCE) bypass has been pushed from next year to April 12, 2027, following the approval of a second extension of time (EOT). According to Guang Ming Daily, Penang Infrastructure Corporation (PIC) confirmed that the extension was approved on June 16 this year.

PIC said the delay stemmed from the time required to obtain permission to commence work on section six of the project, which needed a detailed technical evaluation by the Malaysian Highway Authority. The approval was granted under Clause 49.1(f) of the contract, which deals with delays caused by pending approvals, permits or permissions from statutory bodies or local authorities.

The first EOT, extending the deadline to Oct 31, 2026, was granted on Oct 30, 2023 due to land acquisition processes affecting key stretches of the alignment. PIC emphasised that extensions are approved only when contractors can justify delays with technical evidence, and that both EOT applications underwent thorough review by the time extension committee.

PIC reiterated its commitment to delivering the remaining works within the revised schedule.

The 6km toll-free bypass will feature a 1.8km ground-level stretch, with the remainder consisting of elevated viaducts (65%), tunnels (20%) and grade sections (15%). It will include three interchanges: Lebuhraya Thean Teik, the Jalan Bukit Gambir–Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah junction, and the LCE interchange featuring a left-in, left-out access and an elevated U-turn.

Costing RM851 million, the bypass is part of the broader RM6.3 billion undersea tunnel and three major roads project. PIC, a state special-purpose vehicle, is also responsible for other major initiatives, including the Silicon Island development near Batu Maung and projects under the Penang Transport Master Plan.

Stand a Chance to Win Lucky Draw Prizes Worth Up to RM40,500!*

As 2025 draws to a close, Botanica.CT is delighted to present an exciting Year-End Promotion designed to reward new homeowners with exceptional lifestyle prizes. From 1 November to 31 December 2025, purchasers of any unit at Begonia, Botanica Villa, or Geranium will automatically be entered into an exclusive lucky draw, offering a total of RM40,500 worth of prizes to be won.

Exclusive Prizes Await Lucky Winners

Participants in this year’s campaign will have the opportunity to take home grand prizes that enhance their new living experience at Botanica.CT:

• 1st Prize: Home Renovation Upgrade Package worth RM15,000* – Give your new home the perfect finishing touch with premium upgrades that reflect your personal style and comfort.
• 2nd Prize: Home Furniture Package worth RM12,000* – Furnish your home with elegant, high-quality pieces that bring warmth and sophistication to every space.
• 3rd Prize: Landscaping Package worth RM10,000* – Transform your garden or outdoor area into a tranquil haven surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty.
• Consolation Prizes: Five (5) winners will each receive a 1g Gold Wafer worth RM700* — a timeless token of appreciation.

Celebrate New Beginnings at The Garden Township

Located within the lush, serene surroundings of Balik Pulau, Penang, Botanica.CT is a thoughtfully master-planned township that blends modern living with the beauty of nature. Every development within the township including Begonia, Botanica Villa, and Geranium, is designed to provide residents with a harmonious lifestyle amidst verdant landscapes and comprehensive amenities.

Promotion Details

Promotion Period: 1 November – 31 December 2025
Eligible Projects: Begonia | Botanica Villa | Geranium
Eligibility: Open to all purchasers who successfully purchase and execute a Sale & Purchase Agreement before 31
December 2025.

Winners will be selected through a lucky draw conducted after the promotion period, and all prizes are subject to the
campaign’s terms and conditions.

Discover Botanica.CT – The Garden Township

Located at Botanica.CT, a 300-acre master-planned garden township in Balik Pulau. It features various residential properties, a commercial precinct and the Prince of Wales Island International School. Upcoming developments include a 173-bed Selgate Specialist Hospital, a Wetland Park and Eden at Botanica CT – The First Integrated Senior Living Resort in Penang.

Don’t miss this golden opportunity to own your dream home and stand a chance to win exceptional prizes worth up to RM40,500*!
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*T&Cs apply.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow confirmed at the state assembly that the state government has officially terminated its concession agreement with Rayston Consortium (Butterworth) Sdn Bhd (RCSB) for the Bagan Ajam–Bagan Luar coastline reclamation project. The decision was made after the company failed to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed reclamation works. The state will reopen the project for new proposals from other interested parties.

According to Chow, the Penang government first signed a concession agreement with RCSB on 16 June 1999 for the construction and management of the Butterworth Outer Ring Road (BORR). Under a supplementary agreement dated 23 May 2022, RCSB was granted the right to develop 582 hectares of reclaimed land.

Major Challenges Acknowledged by Developer

Chow stated that following a series of technical and coordination meetings, RCSB acknowledged facing significant challenges that prevented the project from progressing as planned. These included:

A substantial increase in reclamation costs

The need to shift the reclamation footprint northwards due to the expansion of Penang Port

Restrictions arising from the airspace and height limits related to the nearby Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) base

These factors collectively undermined the project’s viability under the original plan.

Concession Ended in  May 2025, No Construction Had Begun

“Since the developer was unable to prove that it had the capability and feasibility to complete the project, the state government has decided not to extend the concession. The agreement has formally terminated on 31 May 2025,” Chow said.

Chow emphasised that the decision reflects the state’s commitment to ensuring development that is pragmatic, sustainable, and beneficial to the public. He added that the complexity of the project exceeded the developer’s initial assessments, and pushing ahead could have disrupted coastal development along Butterworth’s shoreline.

Looking ahead, Chow said the state remains open to receiving new proposals or planning applications from companies interested in undertaking the Bagan Ajam–Bagan Luar reclamation project.

Imagine a home that perfectly balances urban convenience with natural tranquillity, where sustainable design meets minimalist elegance. This is the vision behind M Zenni, the latest freehold high-rise mixed development by Mah Sing Group Bhd, now launched in the vibrant Batu Maung township of Penang.

Strategically positioned at the gateway to the Penang Second Bridge, M Zenni is more than just a residence—it’s a thoughtfully crafted lifestyle for first-time homebuyers, working professionals, and young families. With indicative prices starting from an accessible RM4XX,000, it represents a golden opportunity to own a slice of Penang’s promising future.

A Harmonious Fusion of Nature and Modern Living

Inspired by mountain landscapes and Japanese minimalism, M Zenni transforms vertical living into a grounded, tranquil experience. It is designed as a peaceful sanctuary, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle, without sacrificing modern comforts. The development’s thoughtful layouts—including studio, 1+1 bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom units—are crafted to provide safe, family-friendly, and modern living environments.

Aligning with Mah Sing’s commitment to sustainability, M Zenni is poised to be a GreenRE Gold-certified project upon completion. Future residents will benefit from:

• 14 Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations
• Solar energy integration to reduce carbon footprint
• An automated waste collection system
• Rainwater harvesting
• Sustainable building materials and optimised natural ventilation

“M Zenni embodies our vision of delivering well-located, affordably priced homes with quality design, sustainable features, and lifestyle-centric facilities,” said Tan Sri Leong Hoy Kum, Founder and Group Managing Director of Mah Sing.

Unrivalled Connectivity and Lifestyle Amenities

Location is everything, and M Zenni delivers exceptional connectivity. Situated just 900m from the Second Penang Bridge, it offers direct links to the mainland. Key distances highlight its supreme convenience:

• 4km to the upcoming Penang Silicon Island
• Adjacent to the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone
• 4.6km to the nearest LRT Station, Permatang Damar Laut
• 7km to Penang International Airport
• A convenient 20-minute drive to Georgetown

A dedicated shuttle service will connect residents to Queensbay Mall, the airport, and the upcoming LRT station. For families, a wealth of educational institutions lies within a 12km radius, including Straits International School and University Sains Malaysia. Retail therapy, healthcare, and leisure are also well-catered for with easy access to Sunshine Square, Gurney Plaza, Pantai Hospital, and more.

Your Invitation to Experience M Zenni

The new M Zenni sales gallery is now open at Southbay Plaza, Batu Maung, marking the relocation of Mah Sing’s refreshed Penang office. This enhanced space provides an ideal setting for prospective buyers to explore the vision of M Zenni.

“We are excited to bring our successful M Series to Southbay. M Zenni is designed to bring together the best of modern living, community interaction, and nature-inspired tranquillity,” said Yeoh Chee Beng, Chief Executive Officer of Mah Sing’s property subsidiaries.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of a sustainable, well-connected community in one of Penang’s most promising locations. Visit the M Zenni sales gallery today and invest in a brighter, more serene future.

M Zenni Sales Gallery
Location: Southbay Plaza, Batu Maung
Operating Hours: 9:30am – 6pm (Weekdays) | 10am – 6pm (Weekends)

About Maldives Residences

A residential development by Ideal Property Group at Bayan Lepas. Strategically located along Lorong Sungai Tiram 6, just across the road from Havana Beach Residences. It is conveniently connected to Jalan Tun Dr Awang, less than 2km away from Penang International Airport. This development comprises 46-storey building with 4 residential towers. It features a mix of affordable and upgraded units, with a built-up size of 850sq.ft. onwards.

Find out more about Maldives Residences