THE Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), which is set to be the largest convention centre in the state, will act as a catalyst for more events to take place in the state after its scheduled completion in the first quarter of 2025.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present to inspect the work’s progress of The Light City project, expects the PWCC, measuring about 76,000sq ft, to be a key venue attraction for major events.
“We welcome the construction of PWCC to accommodate more huge events to take place in Penang as more business visitors will visit the state.
“Of course, we have the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Bayan Lepas to cater to various events, but a bigger convention facility is needed as an alternative.
“The conclusion of the prestigious SEMICON Southeast Asia (SEA) 2022 in Setia SPICE Arena and Convention Centre last month has proven that a larger facility will be a boost for us.
“This is to ensure that more events can take place in Penang, rather than they are held in our neighbouring countries.
“We look forward to PWCC’s completion,” he said in his speech after visiting the project site this evening.
The ongoing construction works of The Light City project, which is located next to the Penang Bridge, is developed by IJM Perennial Development Sdn Bhd (IJMPD).
The shopping-centre component of the mixed development will feature a variety of retail tenants.
The RM4.5bil mammoth mixed development project has two phases. The first phase includes The Waterfront Shoppes, PWCC, hotel & office tower and Mezzo residences, while the second phase comprises The Waterfront Shoppes, Commercial Tower (future development) and Essence residences.
Both phases are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.
IJMPD general manager Tan Hun Beng, who briefed Chow and the media personnel earlier on the project, noted the state’s needs to have a bigger convention hall to cater to more huge events.
“We will do our best to speed up the construction’s progress to ensure PWCC can be completed soon.
“It is our hope to assist the state in bringing in more exhibitions and conferences,” he said.
Also present was IJMPD director Datuk Toh Chin Leong.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis