THE Penang Development Corporation (PDC) recently marked its 55th anniversary with a renewed focus on its core business of setting up industrial infrastructure and meeting the demand for affordable housing and shop lots.
Now with staffing of up to 400 officers in 15 divisions, PDC is now a matured entity due to an impressive track record, especially during the era of Datuk Seri Chet Singh Karam Singh, the longest-serving general manager of PDC, who served from 1971 to 1991.
With the state's second chief minister - the late Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu by his side, Chet Singh laid the foundations for PDC to become an aggressive and top-performing agency.
Recently, the fifth chief minister Chow Kon Yeow was on hand to mark the 55th anniversary and commended PDC’s numerous initiatives that have contributed significantly to the state’s progress and positioned it as a key investment destination in Malaysia.
Chow outlined several notable milestones achieved by PDC this year, citing the completion of the GBS TechSpace building, the fourth global business services (GBS) facility developed by PDC, which received its Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) in late August.
With 60,000 sq ft of rentable space, the project aligns with the state’s ‘Penang Silicon Design @5km+’ initiative aimed at attracting investments and nurturing the integrated circuit (IC) design sector.
The facility, located at the Technoplex Bayan Lepas industrial park, is set to enhance talent retention and economic opportunities in Penang, with a formal inauguration planned for Dec 7.
Another major project nearing completion is the GBS By The Sea building, which has reached 98.9% construction completion as of Nov 1 this year.
This third GBS facility, spanning 294,000sq ft of rentable space, is expected to secure its CCC in early December, further expanding Penang’s capacity to host global business operations.
Chow also highlighted PDC’s pivotal role in developing industrial parks to attract and accommodate high-value investments.
Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3 (BKIP3) and the Bandar Cassia Technology Park (BCTP) are currently witnessing robust progress, with several multinational corporations (MNCs) commencing construction in these strategic hubs.
“PDC has been the backbone of Penang’s socio-economic transformation for over five decades.
“Through strategic investments and innovative initiatives, it has attracted diverse domestic and foreign investments, created thousands of jobs, and strengthened the state’s infrastructure. “This success not only elevates the quality of life for Penangites but also solidifies Penang’s reputation as a preferred destination for investors and businesses,” Chow said.
The event was also a double celebration, as PDC ushered in the festival of lights - Deepavali with festive goodies and food, as well as a cultural performance.
On another matter, Chow said that the Seberang Prai City Council (MBSP) has yet to receive any application from the developer - Hunza Group over the proposal to construct two worker quarters for foreign workers in Juru, Nibong Tebal in Prai.
Around 200 residents staged a peaceful protest against the proposed project, voicing concerns about public safety, traffic congestion, reduced quality of life, and increased pollution.
This is the second major protest after 500 residents also voiced their displeasure about building a similar project in Teluk Kumbar, Balik Pulau on the island.
According to MBSP, the developer is seeking feedback from the residents over the matter. - The Vibes, November 19, 2024.
.jpeg)
