RECLAMATION works for Silicon Island have passed the 200-acre mark, signalling steady progress for Penang’s largest land reclamation project.
The project, covering a total of 2,300 acres, is being developed in two phases – 1,260 acres under Phase One and the remaining 1,040 acres under Phase Two.
Penang Yang diPertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his consort, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah, visited the site this morning to commemorate the milestone. They crossed over to Silicon Island using the 378m temporary steel bridge built at Permatang Damar Laut.
Joining the entourage were state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari and his wife Dyana Sofya Mohd Daud, Deputy State Secretary (Development) Mohamed Abdul Rahman and Southwest District police chief ACP Sazalee Adam.
Also present were Southwest District Officer Datuk Rosli Halim, Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd (PIC) chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus, Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd (SIDSB) chief executive officer Datuk Szeto Wai Loong, SIDSB Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Management director Azmi Mohamad and SRS Consortium adviser Datuk Seri Dr Ooi Eng Hock.
During the visit, the guests were briefed on upcoming facilities, including the 380m marine viaduct, the Pan Island Link 2A (PIL2A), the Matang Food Court and Community Hub and a new Department of Community Development (KEMAS) training centre.
The marine viaduct, expected to open by January 2029, will have four lanes in each direction and form a key component of PIL2A. It will connect Penang island’s southern coast to Silicon Island and improve access to the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge.
The Matang Food Court, covering 0.8ha, will also house a new Village Community Management Council (MPKK) hall, a Fishermen’s One-Stop Service Centre, food stalls, restaurants and fishermen’s storage sheds.
To support the initial water needs on Silicon Island, a suction tank and pump house will be built near the food court, with construction scheduled to start in October and be completed by end-2027.
Farizan said the 200-acre mark was an encouraging sign that the project was moving forward as planned.
“Reaching 200 acres of reclaimed land is not just about physical progress – it is a signal of confidence that Silicon Island is moving forward as planned,” he said.
“This project is designed to anchor Penang’s long-term growth, bringing together world-class infrastructure, sustainable development practices and community-focused facilities. It will create new opportunities for investment, innovation and jobs, while ensuring local communities benefit from better amenities.”
He added that Silicon Island was planned with resilience and sustainability at its core.
“Every element – from the marine viaduct to the community facilities – has been integrated to serve both economic and social needs. This is about building an island that supports Penang’s role as a regional hub, while keeping people at the heart of development,” he said.
On the Social Impact Management Plan (SIMP), Farizan said a total of RM11.7mil in ex gratia payments has been disbursed to 791 eligible fishermen, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of fishermen.
“In addition to the cash aid, the government has also rolled out the boat and engine assistance scheme.
“To date, 118 out of 295 active fishermen who are boat owners have received new boats and engines, with an overall expenditure amounting close to RM10mil.
“These initiatives form part of the ongoing efforts to provide financial security and modern equipment for local fishermen, ensuring that they can continue their livelihood more sustainably and efficiently,” he said.
Pix courtesy of Silicon Development Island