USERS of the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) services no longer have to jump from one portal to another to perform online activities as a new hyperlocal, one-stop application has been introduced.
Called the ‘PEARL – One Touch Penang’, the application was a collaboration between MBPP and ManagePay System Berhad (MPay). It is dubbed to be the first of its kind by a local council nationwide, offering e-wallet facilities as well.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present to officiate the ceremony earlier, applauded MBPP for this initiative and said the new approach will play a key role in complementing the Penang2030 vision.
“This virtual and omnichannel solution-driven application, I understand, is developed to accelerate MBPP’s services online for Penangites and visitors alike in the state, while boosting digitalisation among the people.
“Also, the application provides interconnectivity among the many MBPP services, including other state agencies services, equipped with e-wallet and marketplace facilities.
“This is to smoothen the entire process for the users while playing an integral part to boost the local economy and encourage cashless payment methods among the public,” Chow said in his speech during the launching ceremony of the application at the Penang Town Hall in Jalan Padang Kota Lama today.
To be developed in phases, it is learnt that this application, which consolidates all of MBPP’s services, will shoulder 112 services under 12 key categories.
During today’s Phase One launch, Chow said some of the key features that can be utilised include paying utility bills, mobile phone top-up services, Link Bike booking around George Town, easy access to PDRM, Fire and Rescue Department, hospitals, ambulances and others.
“Phase Two and the consecutive phases will be developed in stages and automatically installed into the application, including the Penang Smart Parking application too.
“This holistic solution would not have been possible without MBPP’s efforts and dedication.
“The state wishes to thank the entire team behind the development of this application, and it is hoped this new approach will bring about positive changes, easing and conveniently assisting the users in their online activities,” Chow added.
Meanwhile, MBPP mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang said the application was timely developed to assist the state in its Penang2030 vision and ultimately, become a very important part of the many smart initiatives introduced by MBPP.
“We are determined to continuously promote digitalisation and make Penang a truly livable and smart city.
“Thank you to my team for working hard to make sure this application becomes a reality,” Yew said in his speech.
Among others present during the ceremony earlier were MBPP secretary Datuk A. Rajendran, ManagePay System Berhad (MPay) founder Datuk Chew Chee Seng and Mastercard country manager (Malaysia and Brunei) Beena Pothen.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Alissala Thian