Approximately 80 hectares of Silicon Island recovered; progress remains steady in current project

The Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd, the organization leading the Silicon Island project, has announced significant progress in the development of the island, which is set to extend the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone.

In a statement made today by the CEO of the corporation, Farizan Darus, the project, covering 930.78 hectares, is on track and expected to be completed by the year 2032. The project is designed to be a driver of Penang's long-term growth, combining world-class infrastructure, sustainable development practices, and community-oriented facilities.

Silicon Island, located off the southern coast of Penang Island, will serve as an extension of the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone. The project is divided into two phases: Phase 1 (510 hectares) and Phase 2 (420.9 hectares).

In a positive development for the local community, the project is expected to bring about better facilities, opening up new opportunities for investment, innovation, and employment. Furthermore, the Social Impact Management Plan is providing financial aid to those affected by the project.

Farizan Darus announced that RM11.7 million had been paid out to 791 fishermen under the Social Impact Management Plan. This includes ex gratia payments, and a significant number of active fishermen have received new boats and engines as part of the plan, with 118 of 295 active fishermen receiving new boats and engines worth nearly RM10 million.

The corporation's efforts to support the local fishing community have not gone unnoticed. The total value of boats and engines given to active fishermen is nearly RM10 million, a testament to the corporation's commitment to minimising the impact of the project on the community.

Reclamation for the project started in September of the previous year, marking the beginning of this ambitious endeavour. As the project continues to progress, the community can look forward to improved facilities and opportunities for growth.

The expansion of the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone with the addition of Silicon Island is expected to further boost Penang's economic growth and position it as a hub for innovation and investment in the region.

Approximately 80 hectares of Silicon Island recovered; progress remains steady in current project