Beginning June 15, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) will commence the installation of smart meters in Penang as part of its initiative to improve customer convenience. This move follows the successful installation of three million smart meters in Melaka and Selangor (Klang Valley) as of June 9.

Zairil Khir Johari, the State Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman, highlighted that the smart meters would be installed for TNB customers under residential and commercial tariffs. This effort is part of an energy sustainability agenda implemented in Peninsular Malaysia.

The installation of smart meters is completely free of charge for TNB customers. With the installation of these meters, customers will be able to monitor their energy usage conveniently through the myTNB app and portal. This feature enables users to detect any sudden increases in energy consumption, allowing them to identify potential device malfunctions or power wastage.

Zairil emphasized that the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change (NRECC), in collaboration with the Energy Commission, is closely monitoring the project.

The installation and replacement of the smart meters will be carried out by TNB technicians and authorized vendors. Prior to the installation, each unit will receive a smart meter installation notice and an electricity interruption form (Form B). During the installation process, residents can expect a temporary power outage lasting between 30 minutes to an hour. Stratified units will receive prior notification through their management.

The smart meter installation will commence in Pulau Tikus and gradually expand to other areas in phases. The project is expected to be completed throughout Penang by mid-next year.

EBARA Group, through its Malaysia-based subsidiary Ebara Precision Machinery Sdn Bhd, has officially opened its new manufacturing facility in the Batu Kawan Industrial Park (BKIP) today.

EBARA is a worldwide leading global manufacturer of vacuum and semiconductor systems used in the production of wafers, liquid crystals, solar cells and other products requiring advanced technology.

Ebara Precision Machinery Malaysia managing director Takashi Sugiyama said it is the company’s first advanced manufacturing facility in the country that is based in Penang.

“We choose to set up our plant in Batu Kawan due to its close proximity to our supply chain involving our customers and suppliers.

“With an investment value of RM30.4 million, the company will be offering value-added products and quality services to meet the growing market demand for various precision needs, mainly in the semiconductor, LED and electronic industries.

“The new plant will also facilitate sales and marketing, assembly, servicing, and support of Ebara’s dry vacuum pumps and other related equipment activities,” Takashi said in his speech before Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the grand opening ceremony today.

Also present were InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian and Penang Mida (Malaysian Investment Development Authority) director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed.

Chow said the company’s presence in the state will undoubtedly bring numerous benefits to the community.

“This includes the creation of 100 new job opportunities, as well as the promotion of collaboration and knowledge sharing, all of which will undoubtedly contribute to the state’s economic growth and enhance our global competitiveness and technological advancements.

“Penang is indeed proud to be the chosen location for Ebara Precision Machinery, which also signifies the confidence that our partners from Japan have placed in Penang.

“Often lauded for its well-developed industrial ecosystem, Penang has the capacities and capabilities to support the needs of industrial players in next-generation technologies and growth strategies.

“Thus, I am optimistic that Ebara Precision Machinery will reap a myriad of benefits from its operation in Penang, the Silicon Valley of the East,” he said.

Chow added that in line with the industry growth, Penang is also placing a strong emphasis on sustainability.

He proudly acknowledged the numerous industry players in the region who have made genuine commitments to environmental stewardship, social inclusivity and ethical governance.

The state recognises the importance of embracing sustainable practices and developing solutions that prioritise the well-being of our planet as they are key elements for our sustainable future.

Therefore, the establishment of Ebara Precision Machinery is seen as a crucial catalyst in driving sustainable innovation, advancing green technologies, and promoting environmentally conscious business practices here in Penang.

At the end of his speech, Chow also expressed his appreciation to InvestPenang and Mida for their synergistic efforts in engaging investors and facilitating project implementations.

He said the state government, via InvestPenang and other relevant state machinery, is committed to providing unwavering support to the investors.

Source: Buletin Mutiara

According to a news report from TheStar newspaper, Industrial property transactions and prices in Penang are predicted to experience a significant rise of approximately 10% in 2024 due to the growing demand for industrial properties. One Asia Property Consultants (Pg) Sdn Bhd executive director Chandra Mohan Krishnan has stated that the current pricing, ranging from RM65 per sq ft to RM90 per sq ft, is likely to be adjusted upwards to meet the increasing demand.

Referring to a report by the National Property Information Centre (Napic), the number of industrial property transactions in Penang has already seen an increase, with 522 transactions in 2022 compared to 464 in the previous year. Furthermore, the value of transacted industrial properties also rose from RM1.61 billion in 2021 to RM1.62 billion in 2022. Chandra Mohan Krishnan expects the number of industrial property transactions to surge by 10% in 2024.

The report also highlights the emerging site for new industrial investments, the Northern Seberang Prai (SPU). In 2022, SPU recorded 77 industrial property transactions valued at RM67.39 million, compared to 70 transactions in 2021 worth RM73.7 million. Chandra explains that the decrease in transaction value was due to the sale of large tracts of land, which typically leads to a decrease in pricing.

In the first quarter of 2023, Penang witnessed a rise in industrial property transactions, with 142 properties transacted compared to 110 in the corresponding period of the previous year. Central Seberang Prai (SPT) and South Seberang Prai (SPS) also experienced an increase in transactions, with 260 and 107 transactions in 2022, respectively, compared to 224 and 95 in 2021.

The sales of industrial properties in Ideal Capital Bhd’s Penang Technology Park @ Bertam have been strong since its launch in March 2023. Approximately 30% of the first phase of PTP@Bertam has been sold, thanks to its accessibility to the North-South Highway Bertam Toll and Butterworth-Kulim Expressway, as well as its proximity to surrounding housing estates and educational institutions.

The industrial sub-sector in Malaysia as a whole has seen significant growth, with 8,082 transactions worth RM21.16 billion in 2022. Compared to 2021, this represents a 44.5% increase in volume and a 24.8% increase in value. The overhang situation in the industrial sector remained manageable, with a decrease in overhang volume and value compared to the previous year.

Penang, along with Sarawak and Johor, accounted for a notable share of the industrial overhang. However, Penang’s appeal as an alternative manufacturing site to China remains strong, especially in the electronics and electrical industry. The industry plays a significant role in Malaysia’s economy, accounting for 38% of total exports and attracting high levels of investments.

To support the growing demand for industrial land in Penang, the Penang Development Corp (PDC) is developing the infrastructure for 800 acres of land in East Batu Kawan, which is expected to be completed by 2028. This development aims to cater to the strong demand from multinational corporations (MNCs) from various countries seeking alternative investment destinations.

Hunza Properties Berhad started the second half of 2023 with a bang as they successfully broke the ground for Phase 2 of Penang International Commercial City (PICC) here at the doorstep of the soon-to-be-completed MUZE at PICC.

PICC was first unveiled to the public back in 2018 in conjunction with the Group’s 40th Anniversary. With a massive gross development value (GDV) of RM7.5 billion and long-term real estate investment value of RM2.5 billion on a 43-acre freehold land, it is expected to create more than 15,000 job opportunities upon its complete manifestation. The first phase, MUZE at PICC, was launched shortly after in 2019 to a great reception from both the local and international markets.

After more than four years-and despite the onslaught of the pandemic from 2020-2022-MUZE at PICC will finally be completed within the next few months to the title of “Tallest Smart Residential Building in the Northern Region of Malaysia”. The penthouse component, MUZE Signature VI, which was designed by the world-renowned YOO from the UK will also be launched shortly.

In time for its 45th anniversary, Hunza Group will embark on the next phase of PICC which comprises PICC Commercial Hub and SENZE at PICC. The PICC Commercial Hub will be at the heart of the entire development with a shopping mall, a 5-star hotel, a Global Business Services (GBS) hub, and high-grade office spaces in the mix. More details on the hotel and the mall’s anchor brands will be revealed across 2024.

“The combined long-term investment value for our PICC Commercial Hub will be around the range of RM1.3 to RM1.5 billion. The different components will also bring about 15,000 job opportunities to the state of Penang,” said Dato’ Khor Siang Gin, the Group Managing Director of Hunza. He also said that the Group commits to creating positive ripple effects to the surrounding communities through external infrastructure upgrades that will involve approximately RM130 million on top of job creation and the establishment of a vibrant social hub for the township of Bayan Lepas.

The other half of Phase 2 – SENZE at PICC – will be Hunza Group’s biggest endeavour to date. With 1,680 furnished units of serviced residences spread across 3 towers, the Group intends to present a brand-new living experience amidst the metropolitan setting of PICC. The project will be officially launched with more details in the coming months.

Earlier on, YB Jagdeep Singh-the Penang State EXCO for Housing, Local Government, and Town & Country Planning – delivered his speech with much optimism for the upcoming Phase 2. “When Phase 2 is completed down the road, I believe it will be able to rival those landmark developments we often see in capital cities around the world,” said YB Jagdeep. He also mentioned that the Penang Housing Board is collaborating with Hunza Group for the former’s first RMMPg (Rumah Mampu Milik Pulau Pinang) – The Millennia at Bukit Gedung.

In his congratulatory remarks, YAB Chow Kon Yeow, who is the Chief Minister of Penang and Guest of Honour at the event, said: “PICC will be an embodiment of what Penang aspires to be for the future: vibrant, integrated, metropolitan, forward-looking, and powered by technology. With the myriad of commercial components at play in Phase 2, it will further exemplify Penang’s potential as a major economic gateway as well as amplify the variety of job opportunities in the State.”

The construction of Bandar Baru Air Itam to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway (Package Two) bypass is now at 35.14%.

Project director Nasfiza Mokhtar, who was from the Public Works Department and currently with Penang Infrastructure Corporation (PIC), said the project was behind schedule by about 2%.

She said, however, the project completion deadline remained Jan 31, 2025.

“We thank the authorities and all involved for the cooperation given.

“Most land acquisition matters have been resolved, and we look forward to addressing the remaining soon. Similarly, utility-related challenges have also been successfully managed,” she said during her short presentation at the construction site at Bukit Gambir here, yesterday.

The briefing was part of the site visit ceremony of the 5.7km Bandar Baru Air Itam to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway (Package Two) bypass project. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and state Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari inspected the project which included several elevated and at-grade sections.

The estimated cost of the dual carriageway project is RM851.04 million.

It was reported that Package Two will comprise three interchanges – Interchange One (at Lebuhraya Thean Teik), Interchange Two (Jalan Bukit Gambir-Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah) and Interchange Three (at Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, which will involve a left in-left out junction and an elevated U-turn.

The project contractor is Consortium Zenith Construction (CZC), and the implementing agency is PIC.

CZC project director Razif Ahmad Ahmad Khan said when Chow first visited the site on Jan 7 last year (2022), the work progress on only about 8%.

“Today, we are proud to announce that we have achieved 35%. We understand the heavy responsibility of providing a good highway network for the people,” he said in his speech.

PIC chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus said the project was being monitored by PIC.

“The Chief Minister has been briefed and taken on a tour to check out the work progress. He was able to understand the project status through this site visit,” Farizan said.

Chow said two twin land tunnels would be built along the Package Two alignment.

“Initially there were three, but after revision, there will be two (twin land tunnels).

“Each tunnel is about 300m to 400m-long. And it is only about 600m between the two tunnels,” Chow replied to a question by a journalist after the event.

Earlier in his speech, Chow said the site visit helped him to understand the implementation of the project better.

“In the past, Datuk Lim Hock Seng (now Penang Economic Planning Division transport chief) and I objected to the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) proposal as it will involve burdening the people with tolls for using the expressway.

“Today, the Penang government is able to implement this (Package Two) project without imposing any toll on the road users. It will be a toll-free highway which will connect Air Itam to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway.

“Penang government is committed to addressing traffic issues in the state,” he said.

Source: Buletin Mutiara