AT THE HEART of Penang’s transformation as a thriving socio-economic and developmental hub lies the Penang Development Corporation (PDC), which holds the pivotal role of shaping the state’s property landscape and transforming its infrastructure. As an urban planning government agency, PDC has provided liveable housing schemes for locals from different income groups and pioneered the establishment of industrial zones and public recreational spaces, all of which include high-quality features geared towards accessibility and sustainability.

Then and Now: PDC’S Role in Housing

In its early role as Penang’s principal property developer, PDC created urban townships for the booming industrial areas of Bayan Lepas and Seberang Jaya. These townships provided affordable flats and landed housing options for Penangites and non-resident workers living nearby. From low- to medium-cost flats and landed housing options across the new townships of Bayan Baru, Seberang Jaya, followed by Gat Lebuh Macallum and Jalan Kedah as part of George Town’s urban renewal scheme, PDC’s housing development not only enhanced the quality of life of Penangites, but broadened the state’s economic base by building a formidable construction sector.

Recognising the present challenge of land scarcity and rising costs, PDC’s subsidiary, PDC Properties Sdn Bhd (PDCP), has developed a wide range of residential/commercial developments. Central to PDCP’s portfolio is the identification of emerging demographic trends and market demands. To the growing population, PDCP introduced affordable housing schemes that resonate with contemporary lifestyles such as the brand new Affordable Housing Scheme (AHS), also known as “New Talent Housing” (Rumah Bakat Baru), in addressing the burgeoning demand of Penang’s young workers and first-home buyers. Estimated to be launched in 2025, this scheme will incorporate the latest Industrialised Building System (IBS) in building high-quality residences across Bandar Cassia, Batu Kawan and Seberang Jaya.

PDCP’s long-term commitment to sustainability and diversity has also led to developments such as Jiran Residensi—an affordable, high-quality mixed development district with a total of 707 residential and 15 commercial shop office units equipped with multilevel parking, a multi-purpose hall, a playground and kindergarten, and an outdoor gymnasium.

If Penang aims to be a more liveable city, innovative and sustainable housing solutions are crucial. PDCP has now turned its focus to “SMART homes”, integrating affordable pricing with smart technologies. This caters to a wider range of Penang residents and aims to bridge the gap between affordable and luxury housing, especially on Penang’s limited land. They are introducing home concepts such as electric vehicle (EV) charging lots, free Wi-Fi, rainwater harvesting and solar panels for landed, high-rise and mixed developments that combine residential, commercial and recreational elements.

Building Penang’s Industrial Infrastructure

What feeds the housing industry are Penang’s infrastructural transformations that began in the 1970s. PDC continues to initiate developments such as industrial facilities, transportation networks, urban spaces and sustainable green landscapes today. Projects with a larger footprint, such as land reclamation and the development of industrial parks, are built complete with essential amenities such as electricity, reservoirs, telecommunications and an integrated transportation system, securing connectivity and enabling Penang to be a magnet for both international and local investors.

The earliest example of such development was the Bayan Lepas Land Reclamation in the 1970s, and later Persiaran Bayan Lepas (now known as the Tun Dr. Lim Chong Eu Expressway) that connects the heart of George Town to Batu Maung in the south, stretching across the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone with side links to the Penang Bridge (leading to the Prai Free Trade Zone), the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge (leading to Batu Kawan Industrial Park (BKIP)), and the Penang International Airport.

PDC’s latest project is BKIP 3, comprising SMART infrastructural facilities and a massive transportation network to facilitate traffic efficiency. Other developments PDC continues to oversee actively include BKIP 2, Bandar Cassia Smart Eco City, Bandar Cassia Technology Park, Penang Science Park South and Batu Maung District Park.

Investing in Urban, Heritage and Green Landscapes

Demand for urban spaces has increased alongside Penang’s growth as a bustling state. As such, PDC-driven landmarks such as KOMTAR and SPICE Arena have sustained Penang’s reputation as an administrative, business and tourism hub.

PDC has also revitalised heritage sites such as the Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park—the first of its kind in Malaysia—a historical market transformed into a focal point for George Town’s arts and cultural scene. Such initiatives not only preserve the state’s aesthetic and historic appeal but also contribute to its overall economic vitality.

With global emphases on sustainability, PDC continues to integrate sustainable, green landscapes where people can exercise healthy lifestyles. An outstanding project from their portfolio is Bandar Cassia, where public parks such as the Square@Cassia, the BKIP Entrance Park and the ongoing 32-acre Linear Park, are furnished with recreational amenities such as bicycle lanes and walkways.

Looking ahead, PDC aims to remain at the forefront of the state’s future-proof developments, with its latest ongoing project being Penang’s longest sea-facing promenade, spanning from the Queensbay Mall roundabout towards the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge (also known as the Second Penang Bridge). A shared-use pathway of approximately 8km will stretch alongside mixed developments, such as hotels and commercial facilities.

Testifying to yet another progressive outlook, PDC continues to drive Penang toward being a balanced, liveable and sustainable city for all.

Footnotes

[1] “Penang: Looking Back, Looking Ahead, 20 years of Progress”, PDC’s 20th Anniversary Booklet, 1990, pp.22-23.

[2] “Jiran Residensi”, PDC Properties, https://pdcp.com.my/properties/jiran-residensi/, accessed on 3 May 2024.

[3] “Rejuvenating break in city centre”, The Star Online, 9 October 2021, https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metronews/2021/10/09/rejuvenating-break-in-city-centre, accessed on 30 April 2024.