AS part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Penang Port Commission (PPC) will instal a giant replica of Penang’s iconic old ferry to honour the memories of Penangites.
The replica will be placed at Dataran Pemuda Merdeka in Butterworth, located within the Bagan parliamentary constituency.
PPC chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin announced that construction work has already begun, with completion expected by the end of this year.
He mentioned Penang’s old ferry holds a special place in the hearts of many Penangites as a beloved cultural symbol.
“Although many wish for its service return, concerns over safety, cost and other factors prevent it from sailing again.
“Instead, this replica will serve as a remembrance and a creative symbol of our heritage.
“The main objective of this installation is to highlight Penang’s history and attract tourists,” Yeoh said during a press conference at the PPC office today.
The ferry replica will measure 5.49 metres in length, 3.66 metres in height, and 3.35 metres in width. It will be constructed from durable materials like fibreglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), isophthalic resin, steel, and concrete.
Also present were Air Putih assemblyman Lim Guan Eng, who is also the Bagan MP, Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid, Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng, Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, Bagan Dalam assemblyman Kumaran Krishnan, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng and PPC board of director Dr Amar Pritpal Abdullah.
Yeoh added that the replica also will feature an exhibition inside that showcases the history of Penang’s iconic old ferry.
“This will help educate the public, especially our young generation, about our ferry’s history. Additionally, the replica will be illuminated at night, making it a special attraction,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lim commended PPC for its CSR initiative.
“This CSR project means a lot to the people here as it brings back fond memories of using the ferry as their main mode of transportation to the island.
“Hopefully, with this replica installation, Penangites will have the opportunity to connect with the legacy of this iconic old ferry,” Lim said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar