Penang charts resilient future through strategic planning and Silicon Island development

PENANG is pressing ahead with bold initiatives under Theme D: Investing in the Built Environment to Enhance Resilience, with the state government reaffirming its commitment to balanced development, effective spatial planning, and climate adaptation.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasised that Penang must remain resilient in the face of global challenges, particularly climate change, which has brought floods, droughts, and marine ecological pressures to the state.

“We must build a state that is agile and resilient.

“Silicon Island, together with other high-impact projects, will serve as catalysts for an economy and environment that are greener, more inclusive, and future-ready,” he said while tabling the Penang State Budget 2026 at the State Legislative Assembly Building in Light Street today.

Among the key strategies are the Penang Nature-Based Climate Adaptation Programme (PNBCAP), urban farming, and large-scale tree planting.

These initiatives are complemented by innovative infrastructure projects, such as Silicon Island, envisioned as a hub for sustainable industry and modern living.

The state government, through PLANMalaysia Penang, continues to lead urban and rural planning efforts.

“Eight new planning guidelines have been approved by the state Planning Committee as of July 2025, including the Managed Industrial Park (MIP) and Micromobility Vehicle Routes.

“At the same time, major planning documents are being reviewed, including the Penang Structure Plan 2040 (RSNPP2040), which will align with national policies and integrate high-impact projects such as the Penang International Airport expansion and Silicon Island,” Chow added.

Relatively, he stated that Silicon Island itself is progressing steadily.

“Covering 2,300 acres, reclamation works that began in September 2023 have already completed 250 acres by October 2025.

“The reclaimed land is being compacted to prepare for development, with Phase 1 covering 1,260 acres expected to be completed progressively by 2030.

“Critical sites scheduled for completion by late 2025 and early 2026 include the LRT depot, a 16.74-acre Indah Water Konsortium plant, and part of the 100-acre Green Tech Park,” he added.

Meanwhile, Chow also mentioned in his speech that strategic sites such as affordable housing plots, a mosque, the Heart of the Island (HOTI) precinct, and the state government’s administrative centre will be completed between 2026 and 2030.

“Infrastructure works are also advancing, with a temporary bridge linking southern Penang to Silicon Island already completed.

“Construction of the permanent Pan Island Link 2A (PIL 2A) Phase 1, spanning 1.5 kilometres for RM389 million, has commenced,” he said.

Chow also stressed that these projects are not merely physical developments but part of a broader vision.

“Silicon Island is not just about land reclamation. It represents Penang’s determination to create a resilient city that can withstand global challenges while offering opportunities for innovation, sustainability, and community growth,” he said.

With climate adaptation, strategic planning, and infrastructure innovation at the forefront, Penang is positioning itself as a resilient city under the Penang2030 vision.

The state government’s integrated approach ensures that development is balanced, sustainable, and inclusive, paving the way for a stronger future.