PENANG’S industrialisation owes much to the active role of the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) in pioneering and overseeing the establishment of its industrial parks and zones.
PDC’s efforts included land reclamation and the development of industrial parks equipped with essential amenities such as electricity, reservoirs, telecommunications, and an integrated transportation system.
These advancements facilitated connectivity and transformed Penang into a magnet for investments, attracting international and local businesses.
PDC chief executive officer Datuk Aziz Bakar said the corporation’s journey began with the Bayan Lepas Land Reclamation in the 1970s, followed by the development of Persiaran Bayan Lepas (now Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway), which connects George Town to Batu Maung.
“This stretch includes the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone and links to major infrastructures such as the Penang Bridge (leading to Prai Free Industrial Zone), Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge (leading to Batu Kawan Industrial Park), and Penang International Airport.
“The latest addition, Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3 (BKIP 3), features infrastructural facilities supported by an extensive transport network – the Diamond Junction, Lebuhraya Bandar Cassia highway and several ring roads.
“As Penang experienced rapid growth and increased demand for urban spaces, PDC led the charge in revitalising the city.
“Key projects such as Komtar and the then Penang Indoor Sports Arena (PISA), now known as Setia SPICE Arena, significantly enhanced Penang’s status as an administrative, business, and tourism hub.
“The historic Sia Boey market was transformed into Malaysia’s first Urban Archaeological Park, earning an honorary mention at The Edge Malaysia-PAM Green Excellence Award 2020. Additionally, Komtar Walk was developed into a vibrant hangout spot in the city’s heart,” he told Buletin Mutiara recently.
Looking ahead, PDC continues to lead Penang’s future-proof developments, integrating sustainable elements throughout.