THE Bukit Mertajam Rest House, which has been abandoned for about 10 years, can be developed to become one of the attractions in the area.
Heng Lee Lee (PH-Berapit) said she foresees the potential if the open space is used by the community when debating the 2022 Penang Budget at the State Legislative Assembly at the State Legislative Building today.
“Since I was elected in 2018, I have always shown my concern for this place.
“This abandoned premises should be utilised and I have received a notice, stating that the Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) has its plans for this open space.
“This open space suits the teenagers and families to have their activities here. In addition, its location is also near to the four schools.
“In fact, I was very happy with the state government’s announcement to establish a Penang2030 centre and Youth centre in each constituency.
“I have been informed by CMI that they are now in the midst of placemaking the area to understand the community’s needs. I hope that this project can be supported by state,” she said.
On a separate matter, Heng expressed hopes that the state could consider building more digital libraries on Penang mainland due to its high-density population compared to Penang island.
“This digital library is needed as a place of discussion, aside from being used to access a variety of books.
“There are many students in Bukit Mertajam, who are patronising cafes and shops as their hangout spots,” she said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad