Early works on Penang’s man-made island project, known as Silicon Island, will commence on Friday, September 1st, following approvals from relevant agencies, according to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. The project developer, Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd, obtained Environmental Management Plan (EMP) approval from the state Environment Department on July 21st.
Chow added that the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report for the reclamation project, situated off the southern coast of Penang island, was approved with 71 conditions on April 11th.
“With this, the Penang government extends its appreciation to the state Environment Department for its thorough assessment and approval of this EMP,” Chow said in a statement. “This achievement is the result of cooperation and joint efforts to ensure the development of Silicon Island complies with the environmental and safety needs of the local community.”
The approval allows for early works to begin, including the installation of marine buoys and silt curtains for the 930ha project, followed by physical reclamation works on site.
In addition to the EMP approval, the Penang government will distribute ex-gratia payments in phases to the affected fisherfolk who have signed up for the Social Impact Management Plan (SIMP). This includes an initial payment of 75%, with the remaining 25% to be given out early next year.
The Silicon Island project is designed based on environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and aims to become a leading technology centre in the region, generating new job opportunities and long-lasting economic benefits for the area. The project will initially create approximately 600 marine and land-based jobs during the 18-month reclamation period, with priority given to fishermen and local residents.
The project’s planned developments include the Green Tech Park (GTP) and Heart of the Island (Hoti) business district, which are expected to attract high-impact investments and serve as an economic catalyst and new tourism attraction for Penang.
The reclamation effort will occur in two phases and is estimated to take between 10 and 15 years to complete. The Green Tech Park will feature research and design facilities, digital technology infrastructure, ecommerce, and business process outsourcing. Meanwhile, the Heart of the Island will serve as a waterfront commercial hub.
Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd, majority-owned by SRS PD Sdn Bhd, has appointed turnkey contractor SRS TC Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Gamuda, for the design, management, and construction of Phase 1 reclamation works on Island A.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
