THE Penang Development Corporation (PDC) has significantly impacted Penang’s industrial growth, transcending job creation and attracting Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs).
The corporation has played a pivotal role as the master planner and developer of new townships, driving urbanisation.
PDC chief executive officer Datuk Aziz Bakar said, to date, the increasing land value in Bayan Baru, Seberang Jaya, and Bandar Cassia attests to PDC’s success as a master builder and developer.
“These townships reflect PDC’s legacy of foresight in creating innovative, sophisticated, and sustainable communities.
“We continue to enhance the quality of life for Penangites across generations, aligning with the aspirations of Penang2030 to foster a family-focused, green, and smart state,” he said recently.
Commenting on Bayan Baru, Aziz said Bayan Baru stands as PDC’s first groundbreaking township on the island.
“Developed as a self-sufficient town, Bayan Baru offers a comprehensive town sub-centre with easy access to commercial, social, and recreational facilities.
“Officially opened in 1975, Bayan Baru embraced a new economic paradigm, partnering with private developers to create more housing, commercial, and retail developments.
“Today, Bayan Baru is poised to become a major epicentre for the Global Business Services (GBS) sector, housing over 60 GBS companies. PDC’s future plans aim to attract more talent and advance development, continuing to enrich the lives of Penangites,” he said.
Following Bayan Baru’s success, PDC developed its second township, Seberang Jaya, the Penang mainland’s first integrated and planned township.
Aziz said Seberang Jaya, launched in 1976, offered a variety of modern facilities and amenities, including playgrounds and open community areas.
“In response to the surge in commercial activities, PDC constructed SP Arena in 2015, a multi-purpose hall for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) events.
“Seberang Jaya, a focal point for many industrial clusters, continues to evolve with a thriving mix of commercial and residential projects by PDC and private developers. This vibrant township is set for more advanced developments to accommodate its growing population,” he highlighted.
He also spoke about Bandar Cassia, PDC’s latest township development project.
“PDC has renewed its commitment to developing futuristic townships where people can live, work, play, and learn in an integrated, eco-friendly environment with well-connected infrastructure. This vision is exemplified in Bandar Cassia, Penang’s first smart eco-city.
“Bandar Cassia is evolving into a new business district and a major hub for medical, educational, and lifestyle services.
“This one-stop centre for living has become a magnet for talent, population growth, and investment,” Aziz added.