DEVOTEES of the historic Waterfall Hilltop Temple in Kebun Bunga will soon enjoy improved accessibility, as a motorised lift or people mover system is set to be installed.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the initiative during the Thaipusam celebration at the temple today, highlighting its significance in enhancing accessibility for worshippers.
Chow revealed that Hartasuma Sdn Bhd, the company selected through a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Penang Hill cable car project, has expressed interest in developing a motorised lift system or ‘people mover system’ at the temple.
“Located at an altitude of over 100 metres, this initiative will promote inclusivity by making access easier for all devotees.
“It will be especially beneficial for those requiring additional assistance, such as senior citizens, people with disabilities (OKU), pregnant women, and individuals with mobility challenges,” Chow said.
As part of Hartasuma’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, the project is estimated to cost between RM4 million and RM6 million, depending on the feasibility study and the selected mode of transportation.
Chow added that the project is expected to be completed within two years, aligning with the construction timeline of the Penang Hill cable car project.
In a letter dated Feb 5, 2025, Hartasuma confirmed its plan to conduct a feasibility study to determine the most suitable lift or transportation system for the site.
The study is expected to take six months, followed by a 24-month construction phase. Once completed, the system will be handed over to the state government for operation.
Additionally, Chow announced that the state government has allocated RM200,000 to the Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Devasthanam Temple Management Committee to support this year’s Thaipusam celebration.
Meanwhile, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo shared that the ministry has installed two giant digital screens at the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple, allowing devotees to follow the Thaipusam proceedings seamlessly.
Gobind also stated that his office would convey the Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) and Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple’s request to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for a special allocation towards future Penang Thaipusam celebrations.
Waterfall Hilltop Temple chairman Datuk Seri K. Kumaraendran expressed gratitude to the state government for its continued support.
“After 30 years of advocating for full step-free accessibility for elderly devotees, visitors, and those with mobility challenges, this long-awaited project is finally becoming a reality,” he said.
Some of the moments captured pictures during Chow’s visit at the Thaipusam celebration :-
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi