THE Penang State Legislative Assembly sitting next year is set to return to its 200-year-old refurbished State Assembly Building in Light Street with the completion of the RM3.6 million restoration project.
After almost two years of restoration works carried out by the Public Works Department (PWD), the building is now ready for the State Legislative Assembly sitting to take place.
State Speaker Datuk Law Choo Kiang said the repair works were undertaken on March 13 last year and completed on Sept 22 this year.
He said this was not an easy project as certain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and regulations needed to be strictly followed in accordance with heritage building aspects.
He pointed out that PWD, which was appointed by the state to oversee the project, did an excellent job by ensuring that the project was carried out smoothly.
“It was a huge challenge to renovate a heritage building like the colonial-style State Assembly Building.
“In fact, I didn’t even rush or ask them for any updates of the works. They have put in their best effort to make this project possible.
“In between, the criteria of choosing suitable building materials took a long time to suit with certain requirements.
“Ever since this project was proposed, the state has full faith in PWD’s ability and effort to complete it.
“Despite the implementation of movement control order (MCO) in March this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this project is still able to see light at the end of the tunnel.
“It is a historical and meaningful day,” he said in his speech before witnessing the handover ceremony of the State Assembly Building to the state goverment by PWD in Light Street today.
The main repair works involved the replacement of the damaged roof structures and upgrading of electrical and mechanical systems for everyone’s safety.
When the repair works were in progress,
the State Assembly sessions were held at Dewan Sri Pinang which is also located a short distance away on the same street.
“With this new environment, I hope all elected representatives can debate professionally and in a good manner when the next State Legislative Assembly sitting resumes,” Law said.
Deputy state secretary (Management) Ahmad Rizal Mohd Hanapiah expressed his gratitude to PWD for completing the refurbishment.
“The next State Legislative Assembly sitting can be held here after almost two years.
“Compliment must be given to PWD for their effort,” he said.
Meanwhile, state PWD director Roslan Ismail was overwhelmed with the feedback given, pointing that it was an honour for PWD to materialise the initiative
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian