THE Penang Public Works Department (JKR) is confident that the restoration of the 119-year-old Penang High Court will be completed by July 13.
Penang JKR director Ahmad Nadzri Abdul Majid said the physical works have reached 82% as of February this year despite their challenges.
“This is a major restoration unlike the last minor one in 2007. As far as I can recall, there hasn’t been any major restoration before this.
“This project has been granted two extensions due to the Covid-19 pandemic and its scheduled progress should be 71%,” he said in an interview recently.
Ahmad Nadzri highlighted the challenges faced which include space constraints, sourcing of materials, and being extremely quiet when the courts were in session.
“The method statement was approved by the National Heritage Department.
“The restoration works must be done under these conditions,” he said.
Despite those challenges, Ahmad Nadzri said the project was not the toughest project handled by JKR.
“We believe that every project is unique and there are effective ways to restore it.
“Overall, the Penang High Court, a Category One heritage building, appeared rundown and in dire need of restoration. The premises exhibited numerous issues such as leaks, water stains, termite damage, dampness, salting marks, and fungal growth.
“Moreover, there was a notable issue with roof leakage occurring in various sections of the court,” he said.
Penang JKR also showed Buletin Mutiara the restoration progress of the Penang High Court after the interview session.
One of the highlights was a breathtaking architectural marvel dome section on the ceiling of the court, adorned with copper plates and stained glass. The two-storey Penang High Court has five courtrooms.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad