Heritage conservation and urban sprawl in Penang — Khoo Kok Heong | What You Think

JUNE 13 — As a layman, I have been following with great interest and intrigue the pros and cons of the Southern Reclamation Project and its impact on Penang Island.

Many Penangites are wary of this project and I believe it will closely be monitored by NGOs and ordinary Penangites alike. This culture of check and balance has long been an integral and ingrained trait of Penang people and I believe has helped Penang maintain its shine as the “Pearl of the Orient.”

Penang Island is small but attractive to Malaysians and foreigners alike. It is a famous destination in the “Malaysia as a second home scheme.” I believe it is often listed among the world’s best livable places for people to retire to. Hence , its population has been on the rise and land for housing and…