THE Penang government, through the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP), remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of the people, especially residents facing land eviction and the risk of losing their homes.
State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu said proactive measures have been taken to resolve the squatter issue in Batu Uban, following concerns raised by Batu Uban assemblyman A. Kumaresan during the State Legislative Assembly today.
Sundarajoo (PH – Perai) explained that LPNPP has provided a concrete solution by offering Type B Affordable Homes (RMKu) located in Teluk Kumbar to affected residents.
“LPNPP has already assisted by offering RMKu Type B housing to 11 residents impacted by the land eviction order in Batu Uban,” he said in his winding-up speech earlier today.
He added that the state government is also prepared to assist in similar relocation issues linked to future high-impact development projects, including the Penang LRT Mutiara Line project.
On the Urban Renewal Project (PSB) in Padang Tembak, Sundarajoo noted that the Special Area Plan (RKK) study for the site did not secure funding approval under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12) Fifth Rolling Plan 2025.
Nevertheless, he stressed that the State government will not remain idle and will pursue follow-up action, including submitting an appeal to the Ministry of Economy via the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT).
“The RKK study is essential to ensure the PSB implementation is carried out holistically, covering legal, social, and safety aspects,” he emphasised.
In related developments, Sundarajoo highlighted the success of the Mahsuri PSB project in Bayan Baru, which became the first in Penang to successfully terminate a strata scheme.
“Currently, Phase 1 construction (Replacement Block) is actively underway.In addition, LPNPP is reviewing the redevelopment potential of Hamna Flats in the Northeast District, which were built in 1993,” he added.
He further explained that PSB projects are not merely about physical structures but represent a broader agenda to uplift residents’ quality of life, boost property values in surrounding areas, and generate positive impacts across social, economic, and environmental sustainability dimensions.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud