PENANG is setting a new standard for sustainable development, inclusive housing, and technological innovation as it ushers in the New Year, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced during the Penang Development Corporation’s (PDC) Christmas and New Year 2025 celebration.
“Penang is proof that we can advance economically while preserving our rich cultural heritage,” he declared, emphasising the state’s commitment to realising its Penang2030 vision.
Chow highlighted efforts to transform Penang into a smart, green state that balances economic growth with inclusivity and sustainability.
One of the highlights of the year is the launch of GBS TechSpace, an ambitious project aimed at creating a hub for research and innovation under the Penang Silicon Design @5km+ initiative.
Chow described the initiative as a ‘strategic integration of research, development, education, and innovation’, featuring facilities such as the Integrated Circuit Design and Digital Park, the Penang Chip Design Academy, and the Silicon Research and Incubation Space.
Further solidifying Penang’s forward-looking vision, he announced the historic launch of the Rumah Bakat Baru Madani Affordable Housing Scheme, a joint effort between the Penang Development Corporation (PDC), its subsidiary PDC Properties, and SkyWorld Development Berhad, to deliver over 35,000 housing units for the M40 group in areas like Seberang Jaya and Batu Kawan.
“This project will greatly benefit the middle-income group and reflects our commitment to addressing housing affordability,” he added.
A pre-launching ceremony for the Damai Lestari housing project in Bertam by PDC Properties was also held at PDC in Bayan Lepas today.
Another milestone includes the introduction of Building Information Modelling (BIM), part of PDC’s Digitalisation Plan 2023-2028, aimed at revolutionising project design, construction, and management. Chow shared that BIM’s pilot project, GBS Mahsuri, was completed nearly three months ahead of schedule.
The establishment of Penang’s first BIM Studio, a state-of-the-art facility, is positioned to make Penang a national leader in modern and innovative construction.
“This progressive step ensures higher efficiency and quality in every PDC project, ultimately benefiting all Penangites,” Chow said.
In closing, he expressed gratitude to PDC for organising the event and fostering a sense of unity.
“Let us continue to strive towards our shared goals and make Penang a renowned and harmonious state,” he said, wishing all attendees a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Also present were state Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, PDC chief executive officer Datuk Aziz Bakar, organising chairman Yew Khye Chuan, PDC department heads and staff.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis