SEVERAL urban renewal and redevelopment projects are being implemented in the Perai constituency to improve living conditions, upgrade infrastructure and rejuvenate ageing communities, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
Chow mentioned that Chai Leng Park remains one of the district’s key residential and commercial centres, and a series of development initiatives have been planned and carried out to address residents’ needs and enhance the township’s overall environment.
Among the projects is the new Chai Leng Park Hawker Centre, commonly known as the “food street”, which is currently under construction.
“The project is expected to take about 18 months to complete and will provide greater convenience for residents in their daily dining and shopping activities,” he said during the 40th anniversary of Chai Leng Park Residents’ Association held at SJK (C) Chung Hwa 3 in Taman Senangin today.
Chow said the state government is also pressing ahead with the redevelopment of Kampung Manis, a traditional wooden-house settlement that has long faced inadequate infrastructure and basic amenities.
“Following discussions with all relevant stakeholders, agreements have been reached, and the first phase of the redevelopment project has officially commenced,” he said.
Under the first phase, new housing units will be constructed along the banks of the Perai River to accommodate existing residents. Once the relocation process is completed, the original settlement area will be redeveloped.
“The objective is to revitalise the area and create a more conducive living environment for the community,” he said.
Another urban renewal initiative will involve the Kampung Main Road settlement, where drainage, road networks and other public infrastructure remain inadequate.
“Community redevelopment is necessary to address these longstanding infrastructure shortcomings and improve the quality of life for residents,” Chow said.
Reflecting on his political journey, Chow noted that 2026 also marks his 40th year in politics.
“Although the responsibilities of being Chief Minister are demanding, I remain committed to serving Penang and its people with optimism and dedication,” he said.
Chow stressed that effective governance requires continuous engagement with the people rather than relying on political rhetoric.
“Politics is never about slogans. It is reflected in our daily interactions with people. Politicians must listen to public concerns and understand the needs of the community to earn the trust of the rakyat,” he said.
He also commended the Chai Leng Park Residents’ Association for its four decades of service, describing it as an active organisation that has consistently championed residents’ interests while fostering community cohesion.
“Beyond community development, the association has actively supported educational, cultural and charitable initiatives, strengthening neighbourhood ties and contributing to a caring and vibrant community.
“I hope more young people will come forward to participate in community service and carry on this spirit of volunteerism,” he added.
Meanwhile, organising chairman Sim Chong Swee said the association has consistently upheld its spirit of serving the community while acting as a bridge between residents and the government.
“It has coordinated with authorities on matters such as infrastructure, public hygiene and cultural activities for the benefit of local residents.
“Over the years, the association has quietly contributed and remained true to its original mission. It has also played a role in supporting charitable and educational causes.
“In conjunction with its 40th anniversary, we are allocating RM21,000 to local education and charitable organisations,” he said.
Also present were State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu and Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi