Image source: Guang Ming Daily FB

A proposed large-scale Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ) project in Juru has sparked firm objections from nearby residents, even as the Penang state government clarified that the plan remains at a very preliminary stage with no formal planning submission made to the local authority.

The proposed project involves a 6-acre site along Jalan Juru, opposite Taman Cendana, where three 30-storey blocks are reportedly being studied to accommodate up to 20,000 workers. According to residents, the site was originally understood to be earmarked for an integrated mixed development comprising a hotel, shopping mall, commercial lots, and apartments. However, the plan is said to have shifted to a large workers’ accommodation scheme, prompting widespread concern among surrounding neighbourhoods.

The issue was raised during a focus group discussion (FGD) and social impact assessment (SIA) engagement session attended by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, state leaders, local assemblymen, project consultants, and community representatives yesterday. The session was aimed at gathering feedback from affected stakeholders, including residents from nearby housing estates and villages within a 2km radius of the proposed site.

Residents opposing the proposal said the development could affect as many as 20 nearby residential areas and villages, impacting an estimated population of 50,000 people. Their concerns centre on several key issues, including traffic congestion, water supply pressure, public amenities, and neighbourhood security.

One of the most pressing concerns is traffic. Based on residents’ estimates, the project could generate up to 300 factory bus movements daily if workers operate on three shift cycles, significantly increasing congestion along Jalan Juru and surrounding roads. Water supply is another major issue, with nearby neighbourhoods reportedly already facing low water pressure during peak evening hours, sometimes leaving upper floors without water.

Beyond infrastructure, residents also expressed concerns over the social impact of concentrating such a large worker population in a single development. Community representatives stressed that they are not against development in principle, but remain firmly opposed to the CLQ concept at this location. They said a return to the original mixed-use proposal, or even affordable housing that benefits local residents, would be more acceptable.

In response, Chow Kon Yeow reiterated that the proposed CLQ is still in the early research and technical study phase. No application for planning permission has been submitted to the Majlis Bandaraya Seberang Perai (MBSP), meaning the project has not reached the approval consideration stage.

He explained that the developer is currently preparing various technical studies, including the Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) and Social Impact Assessment (SIA), and that the engagement session was part of the normal pre-development consultation process.

The Chief Minister added that all feedback from residents and other stakeholders is expected to be documented by the appointed consultants and incorporated into the SIA report, which will later serve as an important reference for future decision-making.

For now, the Juru CLQ proposal remains a concept under study, but judging from the strong response from surrounding communities, the findings of the ongoing impact assessments are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the project’s next steps.

Image source: Buletin Mutiara

The construction of the new Penang police contingent headquarters (IPK) near Jalan Sungai Dua has reached 37.5% completion, according to Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Sim Tze Tzin during a working visit earlier today.

Sim said the RM248.6 million project includes several major components designed to strengthen policing infrastructure in the state, including residential quarters for personnel. The development features a 13-storey administration block with an auditorium, a 14-storey police quarters block, and a three-storey transport branch building.

Other supporting facilities include a two-storey armoury block and a supply branch building, making the complex a comprehensive new operational hub for the police force.

Also present during the site visit were Penang police chief Dato’ Ts. Azizee Ismail, representatives from Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang, and engineers from Jabatan Kerja Raya.

Built on a 18.74-acre site, the project is currently scheduled for completion on 14 May 2027.

However, the current progress is understood to be behind the original target of 43%, reflecting a 5.5% delay equivalent to 28 days. Sim noted that the setback was caused by several technical issues encountered during construction.

In addition to the headquarters complex itself, the project also includes upgrading part of Jalan Sungai Dua into a dual-lane road, along with the installation of street lighting and pedestrian walkways to improve accessibility and safety in the surrounding area.

A century since it first opened its doors, 1926 Heritage Hotel is now relaunched, breathing new life as part of The Unlimited Collection by The Ascott Limited.

On a storied stretch of Jalan Burma in George Town, Penang, 1926 Heritage Hotel emerges as a living chapter of the city’s story, where heritage architecture and contemporary comforts exist in quiet harmony. Originally built in 1926 as British official residences for administrative officers of the time, the property has been thoughtfully restored after a century, preserving its architectural character while reintroducing it for today’s travellers.

A façade of clean white and harmonious beige reflects the hotel’s colonial influence, boasting elements of Anglo-Malay architecture prevalent during the transitional era of George Town. At the entrance, return time and again to its logo of a palm tree flanked by two panthers, your sign that you are home.

“As travel is increasingly shaped by culture and experience, we are seeing growing demand for destinations with a strong sense of identity. In line with Visit Malaysia 2026, 1926 Heritage Hotel offers a distinctive Penang story that connects travellers to the destination in a more meaningful and authentic way. Marking its centennial, the property has been carefully revitalised with respect for its original character, ensuring it remains part of Penang’s heritage for generations to come,” said Mondi Mecja, Country General Manager, Ascott Malaysia.

Part of Penang’s Story

Reimagined for the modern guest, the hotel’s design captures the spirit of old Penang through every preserved corridor and redefined space. Its main double doors lead visitors into the main reception area within the central bungalow. The lobby welcomes all with a signature art feature wall boasting French-inspired straw marquetry also telling the tale of palm trees and panthers. Each corner is not merely a nod to the past but a respectful continuation of it, where Penang’s Straits-style charm meets understated modern luxury.

For those seeking a more lavish space, the Straits Suite provides a truly expansive stay, with a separate bedroom, living area and study. Subtle, considered details — from plush bedding to premium bath essentials — enhance the experience, allowing guests to unwind in comfort or step out refreshed to explore the surrounding neighbourhood.

For a more intimate, nature-connected stay, the 52 sqm Heritage Garden Patio Room, located on the ground floor, features a private outdoor patio and garden. With easy access to the pool area and a tranquil, greenery-lined setting, it is ideal for guests seeking a restful retreat with a closer connection to their surroundings.

Made for Leisure and Business

Beyond a good night’s rest, convene, converge and connect with the latest conveniences within a thoughtfully designed interior to make the most out of your stays.

Congregate within two meeting rooms, the Burma Room and Heritage Hall, awash with natural daylight for productive gatherings. Work out at a modern gym outfitted with the latest equipment, allowing you to maintain your fitness routines with ease. Rejuvenate at the contemporary Asian-inspired spa by Sensorium, a tranquil space for renewal with treatments that balance relaxation with restoration. Relax by the outdoor pool, framed by lush tropical landscaping and greenery, offering a calm retreat away from the bustle of the city. At the end of a long day, gather and ground oneself again at the central courtyard garden, a slice of green, shaded oasis ideal for retreat and relaxation.

About The Westin Residences

The Westin Residences is a mixed residential and hospitality development by VST Group located along the seafront at Gurney Drive on reclaimed land opposite Gurney Plaza and facing Gurney Bay. The project consists of a 69-storey residential tower with 498 units and a 10-level parking podium, together with a separate 28-storey hotel tower offering 217 rooms and suites with a 7-level parking podium. Once completed, the residential tower is expected to be the tallest in Penang.

Find out more about The Westin Residences

Artist impression of proposed mixed-development

Part of the Pulau Burung landfill is poised for a major transformation, with rehabilitation works paving the way for what is expected to be the country’s first green energy industrial park of its kind. The initiative underscores Penang’s push for sustainable development by aligning industrial expansion with environmental stewardship and long-term socio-economic growth.

Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo said the project is a strategic response to Penang’s land scarcity, turning underutilised landfill land into a high-value economic asset. Beyond reducing environmental risks, the redevelopment is expected to attract quality investments, strengthen the state’s global competitiveness, generate jobs, and stimulate local economic activity.

AE Carbon Capital Ltd advisory chairman Victor Yeow said the project will also support resource recovery, circular economy initiatives, renewable energy generation, land restoration, and climate mitigation efforts, while contributing to carbon reduction and broader environmental protection goals.