Ambitious plan: An artist’s impression of how well-connected Silicon Island will be with Penang International Airport and the second bridge when it is ready. Aerial view of the reclamation in progress at Batu Maung to create the 930ha Silicon Island.
Silicon Island reclamation project in Batu Maung began last September and is set to complete in 2032. Taking on a macro view, Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Szeto Wai Loong said master planning for the development was done in favour of public transportation, as opposed to the current private vehicle-centric travel pattern, with the current ratio being 10:90.
According to Szeto, Silicon Island would also adopt a city-wide waste management strategy comprising a food macerator system and a pneumatic waste collection system to reduce waste in landfills. The reclamation of Silicon Island is targeted to be completed in 2032. Some RM4bil will be invested to reclaim the first phase of Silicon Island comprising 607ha. The overall island acreage is 930ha.
“Other water reduction strategies are rainwater harvesting systems and water-saving fittings and wares,” he said. He added that the development complied with the National Physical Planning Council ESG advice to achieve sustainable urban development, emphasising green infrastructure, energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint for Silicon Island.