CONSTRUCTION works at Cecil Residency, a low medium-cost housing project located in the heart of George Town, is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed by early 2024, state Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said.
The project, which is fully funded by the Penang government at a gross development cost of RM55.9 million, is being managed by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC).
“I am here today to conduct this spot check to ensure this particular housing project is progressing smoothly, where the construction works are concerned.
“It is undeniable that the construction industry was badly hit due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but our commitment for the people will always stay intact.
“Projects that suffered major blows, resulting in the stoppage of construction works, will be closely monitored.
“And if works can go on, it must go on, but of course with strict compliance with the standard operating procedures (SOPs).
“I am particularly happy with this project that is progressing well, and as I have always mentioned, the state government prioritises the delivery of affordable homes for the people of Penang.
“It is believed that this project is now 35.91 percent completed,” Jagdeep told a press conference during his visit to the project’s construction site at Pintasan Cecil in George Town today.
Covering a total area size of 2.059 acres, the project will be made up of a single block of building, with 24 floors and 348 units (700sq ft for each unit), as well as nine units allocated for shops.
Separately, Jagdeep has requested the Housing and Local Government Ministry, specifically its minister, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, to provide updates on the ministry’s proposal to build two People’s Housing Projects (PPR) in Penang.
“It was five months ago when the minister was here and told us that two PPR projects, one on the island and mainland each, would be proposed under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) to be built in Penang.
“We hope to get some updates from the minister, and it is hoped that his ministry will materialise their proposal.
“We have actually identified five locations in Penang, but he only mentioned two locations. Making an announcement is one thing, but delivering is even more important.”
Among those present during the site visit at the Cecil Residency project were Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi and Penang Housing Board general manager Ainul Fadhilah Samsudi.
Story and pix by Kevin Vimal