CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow has proposed a closer integration between the Penang State Structure Plan 2040 (RSNPP 2040) and the 2035 Local Plan (island) Draft (DRTPP2035), to ensure better alignment and more efficient development planning across the state.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement session hosted by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) at JEN Hotel this morning, Chow highlighted the importance of ensuring public participation in the preparation of the long-awaited DRTPP2035.
“It is important to get public views and participation in the 2035 Local Plan (Island) Draft because at least they are well-informed.
“All development plans in Penang must go through mandatory processes, even though we still do not have an official 2035 Local Plan for the island,” he said.
Chow noted that this marked the third attempt by MBPP and the state government to prepare a local plan since the administration change in 2008.
“I just reminded MBPP Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran that since we took over the Penang government in 2008, this is the third attempt by MBPP and the state government to formulate the 2035 Local Plan (Island) Draft,” Chow added.
Despite the absence of a formal local plan, Chow stressed that development in the state has been guided by the existing Penang State Structure Plan and a series of planning guidelines that are regularly updated.
“Even though there is no Local Plan Draft yet, we still comply with development guidelines in the state. These guidelines are often updated, and new ones are introduced to address the rapid changes taking place in Penang,” he further added.
Chow then proposed a strategic suggestion to better synchronise state and local development planning frameworks.
“Since the RSNPP 2040 is almost being finalised, perhaps the consultants and MBPP can consider integrating the Local Plan Draft with the Penang State Structure Plan under the same timeframe.
“This way, both plans would cover the same period, and align with Penang’s values, which are sustainability, smart planning, family-oriented development, and socioeconomic balance,” Chow said.
Meanwhile, Rajendran, in his remarks, provided updates on the progress of the DRTPP2035, which has undergone multiple stakeholder engagement sessions.
“For everyone’s information, the Draft Final Report for DRTPP2035 is expected to be completed by March 2026. The intention is to ensure all data and information provided is accurate.
“This study will also consider the feedback from stakeholders before the final draft is submitted to the State Authority for approval, followed by the final publicity session under Act 172. This is expected to be carried out between June and July 2026,” he said in his speech earlier.
Rajendran said one of the most critical components of the plan is the Proposed Zoning Map, which will serve as a key tool for land use planning and control.
“A well-structured and forward-looking zoning plan will ensure sustainable and liveable development, in line with the aspirations of both the state and the nation,” he said.
Rajendran also further added that the engagement session, which is the 12th to date, provides a vital platform for elected representatives, government agencies, private stakeholders, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and local communities to voice their feedback and suggestions.
“We hope to conduct more focused group discussions (FGDs) to fine-tune the proposed zoning map so that it meets the expectations of the state government, the council, and the local community,” he said.
State Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye, meanwhile, underscored the multifaceted challenges of urban planning, especially in areas such as traffic management, housing, public amenities, and the provision of open spaces.
“In development planning, major challenges often include traffic congestion, housing plans, the provision of basic community facilities, as well as recreational spaces.
“All of these need serious attention to ensure future planning is done in an orderly and effective manner,” he said.
H’ng also emphasised that the increasing population and evolving societal needs must be factored into development plans.
“The preparation of the MBPP Draft Local Plan is not solely the responsibility of the local council, but it requires the active participation of all parties present today.
“Let us work together to formulate a Draft Local Plan that balances economic, social, and environmental planning in pursuit of sustainable development goals,” he said.
Also present earlier was the state Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Alissala Thian