A LONG-planned private-sector development on Pulau Jerejak is set to move forward, with the construction of a bridge linking the island to Queensbay expected to pave the way for the project’s implementation.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the bridge, which was approved several years ago to Ideal Property, forms part of a development involving approximately 80 acres of land on Pulau Jerejak.
He clarified that the project does not encompass the entire island but only the parcel of land that was previously jointly owned by the Urban Development Authority (UDA) Holdings Berhad and the Penang Development Corporation (PDC).
“The bridge was approved several years ago to Ideal Property. Because of the history of this development, the over 80 acres used to be owned by UDA and PDC.
“In the process, we disposed of our shares. The same applies to UDA; it is no longer owned by PDC..
“So they have 80 acres and various approvals over the years. Now, they are starting construction of the bridge so that they can also begin their development on the island.
“It is not the whole island, just about 80 acres that used to belong to UDA and PDC,” Chow told reporters.
Responding to questions on whether the project marks a new form of development in Penang, Chow stressed that it is entirely driven by the private sector.
“Yeah, it is a private sector development,” he said.
He added that the bridge will connect Queensbay to Pulau Jerejak and is expected to be completed by 2028 or 2029.
“The bridge is expected to be completed in 2028 or 2029,” he said.