Penang group looks into quitting of heritage properties

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce’s Property Development, Construc­tion and Management Committee wants to know why residents are quitting the state’s heritage properties.

Its Heritage and Tourism Division head Michael Geh said there were many reports claiming that heritage property owners had sold their units, with many bought by foreigners.

It has started a study into the issue.

“The study aims to find out what the causes are for this and why they are selling their units to foreigners.

“We are hoping that the study can be completed by January and will channel the feedback to the local authority for further action,” he told reporters yesterday.

It was also reported that many residents had been forced to leave due to increased rentals, causing some owners to turn their property into illegal guesthouses while others left theirs abandoned.

Geh said the Sustainable Development for George Town World Heritage Site seminar on Nov 16 would be a platform for stakeholders to meet with the authorities and experts to discuss the issue, including the development, conservation and management of heritage properties. — Bernama