PENANG will continue to strengthen public safety, cleanliness, and healthcare services, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (PH-Padang Kota) said while tabling the 2026 state budget in the State Legislative Assembly today.
Chow said the state aims to instal 5,000 closed-circuit television (CCTV) units under the Penang2030 vision to enhance public safety.
“So far, 1,525 units have been installed, covering George Town and Seberang Perai. These cameras help prevent crime, monitor traffic, and support our smart city initiatives,” he said.
High-risk areas such as public spaces, housing estates, main roads, business districts, and tourist hotspots will be prioritised.
“We are also working closely with enforcement agencies to improve patrols and ensure rapid response to incidents,” Chow added.
On public cleanliness, Chow highlighted initiatives by both local councils — the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) — including operations like Crow Sharpshooter (CroSS) and Pigeon Purge to control bird populations.
Chow also lauded the state’s recycling efforts. “Our recycling rate has increased steadily from 49.57% in 2023, to 50.64% in 2024, and 37.8% up to July 2025. MBPP will further upgrade solid waste management facilities and establish a Centre for Environmental Education and Urban Farming to promote sustainability,” he said.
On healthcare, Chow said the state allocated RM83,000 to the Health Committee this year for programmes in collaboration with the Penang State Health Department, with similar plans for 2026.
He stressed the need for the “National Health Screening Initiative”, which has reached 241,909 individuals as of September 2025.
“Wellness Hub programmes will continue to promote healthy lifestyle education across the state,” Chow said.
Chow also expressed gratitude to the federal government, particularly the Health Ministry, for upgrading 42 healthcare facilities for RM8.99 million this year.
“Under the 12th Malaysia Plan, RM9.4 million has been approved for new projects at Balik Pulau and Kepala Batas Hospitals,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee