A HISTORIC moment unfolded for Kampung Manis residents today, as a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the redevelopment project.
The MOA was signed between the Railway Asset Corporation (RAC), represented by its chief executive officer Datuk Azhar Ahmad, and the Penang Housing Board (LPNPP), represented by chief business officer Fakhurrazi Ibnu Omar.
Additionally, a Head of Agreement (HOA) ceremony took place concurrently between RAC, represented by Datuk Azhar Ahmad, and Rivanis Ventures Sdn Bhd, represented by its director, Datuk Seri Nazir Ariff.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasised that the project aligns with the state government’s Penang2030 vision of enhancing the liveability of its residents.
“Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu made a commitment to resolve the issues faced by Kampung Manis residents when he was a Perai candidate during the 2023 state election.
“He had engaged Transport Minister Anthony Loke to explore the redevelopment of the neighbourhood.
“Although the Kampung Manis redevelopment project had long been part of the state government’s agenda, progress was delayed because the land belonged to the RAC, which was under the then Federal Government.
“Now that we are working as ‘a family and a team’, we anticipate more Federal Government projects being approved for Penang,” Chow stated.
Chow urged the developer to adhere to the promised three-year timeline for project completion, noting that Kampung Manis residents have endured prolonged challenges.
The redevelopment, a mixed-use project named ‘Rivanis’, will be carried out in two phases. Phase One will feature 338 residential units with facilities such as a swimming pool and a car park.
In total, 177 households in Kampung Manis will receive an 850sq ft unit valued at about RM400,000, provided to them free of charge in exchange for their current homes.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Anthony Loke described the redevelopment as a major victory for Kampung Manis residents, allowing families and their children to live in a more conducive environment.
“The first 33-storey apartment block will be completed first, enabling residents to move in before their existing homes are demolished,” Loke said, adding that the project has a total gross development value (GDV) of RM1.5 billion.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi