PENANG is now focused on bringing in high-quality investments and high-value industries that can create high-income jobs and generate multiplier effects in the economy, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Chow said this in his speech during the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association (Rehda) Penang’s 49th Annual Dinner at G Hotel Gurney in George Town this evening.
According to Chow, high-value sectors like medical technology, renewable or green energy will be promoted to make Penang the hub of such investments in Asia.
“One of the ways of doing this is to provide incentives for developers to install solar panels in their new development projects, which is also a requirement for obtaining Green Building Index (GBI) certification.
“This GBI certification carries weight for developers who submit their Request For Proposal (RFP) to build affordable homes in Penang.
“To this end, the state government will continue our effort to transform Penang into a location of choice for investors, a destination of choice for tourists and a habitat of choice for residents who desire sustainable living,” Chow said in his speech.
Also present during the dinner were Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk Rajendran Anthony, Rehda Malaysia president Datuk NK Tong and Rehda Penang chairman Datuk Khoo Teck Chong.
Meanwhile, Khoo said Rehda Penang is always ready to partner with the Penang government to help develop the real property and housing industry in Penang.
“This also includes working closely with various state agencies in the formulation of housing guidelines and policies aimed at enhancing the well-being of the state,” he said.
Chow also welcomed Rehda Penang’s dedication and commitment to working closely with the Penang government.
He expressed his appreciation to Rehda Penang members who have collectively contributed significantly to the real property and housing industry in Penang.
Chow added that the continued progress and prosperity in Penang can only be achieved through the cooperation of all parties, including Redha, by means of public-private partnership.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and video by Alissala Thian