INFRASTRUCTURE upgrades and welfare initiatives are being rolled out in tandem as construction progresses on Silicon Island in Permatang Damar Laut, Penang.
This marks a new phase in the state government’s Penang South Islands (PSI) project.
The relocation of the Fishermen’s One-Stop Service Centre (PPSN) to a temporary site will facilitate the construction of a new pump house and suction tank.
Other upgrades include a modern food court, new Village Community Management Council (MPKK) hall and improved fishermen’s sheds.
Bayan Lepas assemblyman Datuk Azrul Mahathir Aziz said the project would bolster growth in the area.
“Development in Permatang Damar Laut and surrounding areas is now on a highly positive trajectory.
“The Silicon Island project is not merely a land reclamation initiative; it will position Penang as a global hub for high technology and innovation,” said Azrul, who is also Penang state assembly deputy speaker.
He was speaking at a Chinese New Year hamper and education incentive handover ceremony at the new PPSN site.
Azrul added that the aim was to create quality employment opportunities and empower local small and medium enterprises, noting that the upcoming Pan Island Link 2A (PIL2A) would also improve connectivity and shorten travel time.
However, human capital development is paramount, he said.
“Building bridges, roads and smart islands is only one side of development.
“The more important side is preparation of human capital.
“All the infrastructure and economic opportunities will be meaningless if our children are not equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.”
During the event, RM500 Higher Education Admission Awards were presented to two daughters of local fishermen, Nur Iman Nabilah Hamdan and Siti Norzawani Mansor, who are enrolled at Universiti Teknologi MARA Johor and Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Melaka respectively.
Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd (SIDSB) strategic communications and stakeholder management head Ann Tan said the temporary PPSN would continue to serve as a key communication bridge between the developer and local community.
“SIDSB reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that welfare assistance, engagement efforts and community feedback mechanisms remain uninterrupted throughout the construction phase.”
Chinese New Year hampers were also given to 20 fishermen during the ceremony.
Also present was Southern Penang Fishermen Association deputy chairman and Teluk Kumbar fishermen unit chief Roslizan Ramli.
