BAYAN Baru, a rapidly growing area with promising economic potential, faces persistent challenges due to its lowland geomorphological conditions and frequent flooding.
These issues have prompted targeted intervention under the Penang Nature-Based Climate Adaptation Programme (PNBCAP).
Between 2016 and 2023, the state Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) reported 16 flood events in Bayan Baru, the highest number in the state. Compounding the problem, many of the area’s piping systems are among the oldest in the state, limiting rainwater capacity and causing flash floods.
To address these concerns, Bayan Baru has been selected for three sub-component projects within the PNBCAP: the Blue-Green Corridor (Sungai Keluang Urban Biophilia), the Upstream Retention Pond, and the Swale and Infiltration Well (Lintang Nibong Upstream Retention Pond).
This is an ongoing programme, which started last year, and will end in 2027.
Think City, in collaboration with the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), the DID, and UN-Habitat, is leading this RM9.2 million initiative.
The project is fully funded by the World Bank’s Adaptation Fund (UN-Habitat) and is supported by the Penang state government and the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change (formerly the Environment and Water Ministry).
During a press conference at Amari SPICE Penang in Bayan Lepas yesterday (June 4), state Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari highlighted the strategic importance of Sungai Keluang for green development despite the area’s reduced green space due to industrial growth.
“This was why Bayan Baru was chosen for this project, to create a balance in green development, aligning with the state government’s Penang2030 vision.
“The impact of the temperature reduction in the surface will be felt in the Sungai Keluang Urban Biophilia, promoting air circulation, reducing air pollution, as well as reducing the effects of urban heat island,” Zairil said.
Also present during the press conference was Penang DID director Mohd Nazri Yasmin.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat