A ONCE-neglected stretch beneath the flyover near Jalan Masjid Negeri in Air Itam has been transformed under a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative led by O2 Clinic, involving a total allocation of RM80,000.
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng said the landscaping upgrade, which covered both sides of the flyover, was completed within four months.
“As a resident who frequently passes through this area, I have long felt that the space beneath the flyover lacked proper upkeep and could be improved,” he told reporters when visiting the site today.
Ng explained that while the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) could have undertaken such works, the adoption approach allowed resources to be channelled to other priority projects.
“This initiative reflects how the private sector can work together with the state government to enhance public spaces while easing the burden on the council,” he added.
The project, fully funded and implemented by O2 Clinic under its CSR programme, involved upgrading and enhancing the landscape beneath the flyover to create a cleaner and more welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
Ng said the adoption period spans five years under an agreement with MBPP, during which O2 Clinic will be responsible for maintenance, with an option to renew the commitment thereafter.
“This will also help reduce manpower and maintenance costs for the local council,” he said.
He added that discussions with relevant authorities had been conducted since the previous year to secure the necessary approvals, noting that all CSR projects must comply with established guidelines and requirements.
Ng also highlighted cleanliness as a key concern in the area.
“The issue is not a lack of maintenance by the authorities, but rather irresponsible behaviour by some individuals who litter, such as throwing cigarette butts indiscriminately,” he said, adding that the adopting party will also oversee cleanliness throughout the five-year period.
Addressing questions on the lack of greenery, Ng noted that limited sunlight beneath the flyover posed challenges for landscaping.
“Without sufficient sunlight, it is difficult to sustain greenery in such spaces,” he said.
Ng said this was the second landscaping adoption project in Air Itam involving private sector participation. The first was undertaken by OHM Group, which adopted the Air Itam roundabout and has maintained it successfully for the past seven years.
He added that more adoption projects would be introduced in the future as part of efforts to promote a more sustainable and community-friendly environment through public-private collaboration.
Also present were MBPP secretary Cheong Chee Hong, O2 Clinic chief executive officer Dr Koay Chun Hang and O2 Clinic chief operating officer Ong Kong Seng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting