THE Fort Cornwallis' moat restoration project in Penang is expected to be ready by May this year after some five years of work.
Moat by tradition is defined as a deep trench around the walls of a castle or fortress that is usually filled with water where in ancient times, it was to ward off any invasion attempt.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that the moat is been entrenched now in the remaining part of the fort's southern and western walls with work scheduled to be completed by May.
He said that the restoration of the moat at Cornwallis, one of the landmarks for Penang, is an indication of the state's focus to develop the Tanjong parliamentary constituency.
He said this at the Tanjong parliament's Chinese New Year gathering at the fort last night.
Present was the Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, who is also the Deputy Finance Minister.
Chow said that the development of modern infrastructure and the preservation of historic buildings in George Town have made the area more attractive to both tourists and investors.
“Preserving history, protecting the environment, and creating a public space that is comfortable, sustainable, and inclusive for everyone help boost the country’s development and socio-economic growth,” he said.
“I also hope that people will strongly support the leadership of the state government to ensure that development plans are carried out properly and in an orderly manner. I would also like to thank Hui Ying for the various assistance and initiatives, such as food basket contributions, financial aid, and efforts toward the upgrading of facilities in the Tanjong area."
“Situated in the heart of George Town, Tanjong serves as the hub for economic, social, and cultural activities, acting as the heartbeat of Penang,” he said.
Tourism is flourishing in George Town, which represents Tanjong - the Malay reference to the city, which was first developed by colonial mariner Francis Light when he came ashore in 1786.
The heritage buildings, eateries with the state's renowned reputation as a gastronomic hub for Malaysia, retail and heritage activities are part of the pulsating drive in Tanjong.
But it has also invoked daily congestion with limited parking - something which the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) hopes to overcome with the proposal to limit vehicle entry, two - hour restriction on parking in certain roads and promoting public Rapid Penang stage bus rides. - February 10, 2025.
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