Burgeoning Batu Kawan may be renamed

GEORGE TOWN: Batu Kawan may get a new name to suit its future metropolis status in the northern region.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said he was toying with the idea of giving the township a new name, adding that Batu Kawan when translated into English means “a stone’s friend.”

“Perhaps we need something more appropriate to reflect the most modern satellite township in Malaysia (when all projects are completed).

“It is my own suggestion and it will be discussed at the next state exco meeting. We have a few names in mind now,” he told a press conference at the E&O Hotel here yesterday after witnessing the signing of purchase and development agreement between Aspen Vision City Sdn Bhd and Columbia Asia Sdn Bhd to set up Columbia Asia Hospital in Aspen Vision City in Batu Kawan.

Lim also witnessed the signing of financial facility agreement between Aspen Vision City and OCBC Bank (M) Bhd for Verve, the first phase of the Aspen Vision City development.

On another matter, Lim said Penang would be able to overcome the hardship of the impending toll increase and Malaysian currency slump.

“I believe Penang would be able to overcome the negative impact better than other states because of our strong investments and growth in tourism sector. Penang is a happening place and people come here because of the hospitality.

“The opening of IKEA store is an indication that they are confident of our ability to overcome the ‘headwind’ faced by the country. The prospect remains bright for Penang,” he added.