GEORGE TOWN: The state government will ensure that all necessary procedures regarding the North Coastal Paired Road (NCPR) project are followed, including holding a town hall session before implementing the new highway alignment, says Zairil Khir Johari.
The state infrastructure committee chairman acknowledged the concerns raised by some residents who fear that such a large project will impact their daily lives.
He expressed this during a press conference at the state assembly building on Monday (Nov 17).
Zairil emphasised that the state government has complied with all mandatory requirements, including conducting a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), as well as related procedures, when seeking approval for the project. He stated that this approval also included public engagement sessions, town halls, and consultations with residents of Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bunga, Teluk Bahang, as well as with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the tourism industry.
He noted that these activities took place in 2016, which led to approval being granted in 2017 after all necessary procedures had been properly implemented. From the public engagement and consultation processes conducted in 2016, Zairil reported that over two-thirds of residents supported the NCPR project at that time. "Based on this support, approval was given," he stated.
Zairil also mentioned that the state government made amendments to the originally approved alignment in 2017. "The current alignment shifts the route away from the coastline, starting from Tanjung Bunga and moving inland through Chee Sent Garden and other areas before reaching Batu Ferringhi. As a result, a new EIA is required for this revised alignment. The state government remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities and will apply for the new EIA, ensuring that all necessary processes, including public engagement and consultation, are conducted for the revised alignment," he said.
He indicated that the application for the EIA for the new alignment will be submitted once the final design of the project is completed by early next year. Zairil assured that the state government will not shy away from its responsibilities and will adhere to all requirements needed to implement the project. "We want to expedite it. Once the design is finalised, we can conduct engagement sessions, including town halls," he added.
Earlier, about 20 people gathered peacefully outside the state assembly to deliver a letter requesting a meeting with Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. The group, led by the Tanjung Bungah Residents Association, is seeking a town hall session with the state government regarding the NCPR project.
