IN A major stride toward enhancing Penang’s urban development strategy, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) today officially launched the City Competitiveness Master Plan (CCMP) at the Royale Chulan Hotel in George Town.
The CCMP, backed by the Ministry of Economy, is a data-driven strategic framework aimed at strengthening Penang’s economic position while ensuring inclusivity, livability, sustainability, and good governance across the island.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the launch, described the initiative as a timely and critical move to maintain Penang’s strong standing amidst ever-growing challenges.
“This is extremely important for Penang.
“Since 2008, under the new administration back then, we have consistently been monitored by the people of Penang and other states, to see whether Penang can succeed in achieving its goals,” Chow said in his speech.
He added that despite the pressures, Penang has managed to consistently place among the top five states in Malaysia in various aspects of development.
“When I eventually hand over responsibilities to the next leadership, I want to do so with Penang in a much better position than before. That is my hope.
“With the outcome of this CCMP, we now have a clear direction on how to move forward.
“We will take necessary steps, leverage all available resources, and ensure Penang remains competitive, not only in Malaysia, but in the region,” he further shared.
Chow, who studied population and urbanisation more than four decades ago, highlighted how local councils have now become key players in determining the success of cities and states.
“Penang Institute reminds me from time to time that the competition we face is not only between states in Malaysia, but increasingly between local councils.
“That is how crucial the role of city councils has become in shaping growth,” he said.
Meanwhile, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the CCMP provides a proactive and strategic response to the major challenges facing urban Penang.
“This master plan, supported by the Ministry of Economy, offers a structured, data-based strategic framework to address key issues in our city.
“It is anchored on four strategic pillars, namely driving economic competitiveness and innovation, enhancing urban quality of life and environmental sustainability, promoting inclusive growth and community well-being, and strengthening governance and institutional capacity,” he said.
He emphasised that the plan’s success depends on collaboration at all levels.
“My role, along with MBPP’s, is to ensure this plan is implemented inclusively and in an organised manner.
“It’s true success depends on shared responsibility, from government agencies and industry players to every level of our society.
“To the Ministry of Economy, consultants, all stakeholders, and the dedicated MBPP staff, thank you for your commitment in realising this master plan,” Rajendran said.
Also present at the launch was state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye, alongside key officials, stakeholders, and community leaders.
Earlier, the head of CCMP, Datin Cheng Hui Lin, from Green Acres Studio, held a briefing about the master plan.
The CCMP is expected to serve as a guiding compass for MBPP as Penang navigates its next phase of sustainable urban growth.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud