MRT Corp is scheduled to begin inspecting the Sungai Nibong Festival Site around June next year as part of preparations to build the depot for the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the stretch will come under MRT Corp’s management after June, which may affect the organisation of future events at the site.
“After June, this whole stretch will come under MRT Corp, so we may not be able to organise events here in the same way anymore,” Chow told reporters when asked about the progress of the development.
He mentioned that the annual Pesta event taking place next week is likely to be the last to be held under the current set-up before the site is officially handed over.
“We are unsure if similar activities can continue once work begins, as the area will undergo significant changes,” he said.
Chow said the site has been earmarked for the construction of the LRT depot, along with a new station along the line.
“This project involves the depot and a future LRT station, so MRT Corp needs full access to proceed. That is why these may be the last events we host here,” he added.
This year also marks the first time a 3km fun walk was organised within the Pesta area.
Some 1,500 participants took part in the fun walk this morning in cool weather, accompanied by their families and friends.
Among those who participated in the walk were Chow himself, as well as state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi and staff and volunteers from the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC).
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Siew Chia En