FOLLOWING the success of the Kampung Manis redevelopment project, Penang is embarking on another transformative initiative with the Ujong Batu redevelopment project.
State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu announced that 268 residents would receive a 750 sq ft unit, valued up to RM100,000, free of charge in exchange for their current homes. The redevelopment project will be executed in two phases.
“The proposed site for the Ujong Batu redevelopment project is situated near the Kampung Manis and Kampung Main Road redevelopment area,” Sundarajoo shared during an engagement session with Ujong Batu Lot 20087 residents at Dewan Datuk Haji Ahmad Badawi in Butterworth today.
“Phase 1 of the redevelopment will focus on constructing 300 replacement units, alongside 500 affordable homes type B2 (RMMB2), community facilities, shop units, commercial spaces, and car parks.
“Phase 2 will include a mixed development featuring affordable homes type C3 (RMC3), commercial spaces, community facilities, and car parks.”
At the engagement session, 30 residents symbolically received the Letter of Intent (LoI) from the state government.
The issue of 340 squatters on 15.23 acres of state land in Kampung Ujong Batu has been a long-standing challenge. A census conducted by the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP) on Nov 24 identified 268 residential structures eligible for replacement units under the project.
Sundarajoo, who is also the Perai assemblyman, noted that the redevelopment site is strategically located in Perai town, adjacent to Jalan Bagan Dalam, Jalan Assumption, and the Butterworth Outer Ring Road (BORR).
“I am sure that this redevelopment will not only provide organised and efficient housing but also create economic opportunities through commercial spaces, generate income, and improve traffic flow.
“The state government is committed to prioritising the residents’ welfare and quality of life.
“I also want to emphasise that it is my goal to ensure every Penangite and family in Penang has access to basic necessities, especially a comfortable home to live in. My main focus is on the B40 and M40 groups,” Sundarajoo added.
Also present were Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, Bagan Dalam assemblyman K. Kumaran, LPNPP chief business officer Fakhurrazi Ibnu Omar and other dignitaries.
On Nov 11, a historic moment unfolded for Kampung Manis residents, as a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the redevelopment project.
In total, 177 households in Kampung Manis will receive an 850sq ft unit, valued at about RM400,000, free of charge in exchange for their current homes.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix courtesy of Penang State Housing Board