In danger of being delisted

BADAN Warisan Malaysia is alarmed by the numerous illegal works being carried out on heritage-listed buildings, including those listed as Category One within George Town’s core heritage zone and the surrounding buffer zone.

According to local heritage activists who are volunteers, there have been about 50 cases of illegal works within the Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) site. Some have been completed and others are still under renovation, and using the wrong materials too.

Recently, it was reported that the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) had not approved the work done on the Customs Building (Malayan Railway Building) at China Street Ghaut and the Hakka Association building at No. 7, Toh Aka Lane. This follows the destructive work done at the Fooi Chew Association building in early February 2023 that also did not have a permit.

While MBPP has quickly issued stop work orders, the illegal renovations continue, indicating that there are insufficient deterrents. How long should the local authorities reflect on the seriousness of this situation before clear and decisive outcomes become transparent? Will the culprits face the consequences when that happens?

The National Heritage Act 2005 protects both the interior and exterior of buildings. All buildings listed in the George Town Special Area Plan are subject to specific conservation regulations. How are the local authorities monitoring them? Is there a task force? Would they collaborate with heritage volunteers who monitor the situation on the ground?

Six months have passed since the illegal demolition of the late 19th century Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee monument (pic). As of now, the ruins of the smashed tomb are still lying where they were dumped – at Penang’s Jelutong landfill. So far, no action has been taken against those who demolished it.

Meanwhile, we understand that the owner/developer has applied to MBPP for planning permission to build a 30-storey residential tower on the site of the illegally demolished tomb. How likely is it that MBPP will reward this illegal demolition with planning permission?

If it does approve the project, it is tantamount to the authorities conspiring with and assisting developers to undermine and contravene laws that were specifically set up to protect heritage buildings and sites.

There is a clear need for expert and independent participation in the approval process for any plans related to such sites.

We are deeply worried that the illegal works on heritage buildings in George Town will continue unabated, eroding the confidence of the public in the ability and willingness of local authorities to carry out their responsibilities under the law.

Due to the increasing number of illegal and inappropriate renovations and redevelopments, there is a possibility of George Town being removed from the World Heritage Sites list. This will also affect Melaka because the Unesco World Heritage Site status is for both George Town and Melaka.

Badan Warisan Malaysia therefore suggests that MBPP take the lead and call for the formation of a Heritage Steering Committee for all of Penang, and for this entity to have executive powers pertaining to any building with heritage value.

This committee should comprise both local authority officers and heritage groups. Any development involving any heritage building would require its stamp of approval. Until this entity is set up, a full moratorium on demolitions must be enforced.

LIM WEI-LING

President

Badan Warisan Malaysia & 2023 Council of Badan Warisan Malaysia

(Badan Warisan Malaysia is a national NGO that works nationwide to raise awareness of heritage issues and advocate for a conservation-friendly environment in Malaysia.)