PRTU Area Development: PPSB Committed To Transparency, Public Safety

GEORGE TOWN, Jan 25 (Bernama) -- The area surrounding Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda (PRTU) here is set to be developed in stages into a commercial zone to enhance land-use value and revitalise the local economy.

Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) said the move aligns with current requirements and long-term port development strategies, aiming to provide more comfortable, safe, and user-friendly facilities for the public and tourists.

"PRTU is one of the key installations under the management of the Penang Port and functions as a primary ferry terminal alongside Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) in Butterworth.

"We consistently evaluate the concerns of the community and stakeholders, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every development project is carried out with transparency, integrity, and in compliance with all established regulations," it said in a statement today.

The statement follows several allegations and issues raised regarding ongoing development works at the PRTU site, including claims that no consultations were held with existing tenants.

PPSB clarified that an engagement session was held on Dec 29, involving the developer and all affected tenants, to provide a detailed explanation of the development plans, implementation timelines, and implications for business operations.

PPSB noted that following the meeting, all tenants agreed to vacate their premises to allow development works to proceed without any official objections.

The statement also said that an understanding was reached through open and constructive discussions, under which tenants will be given priority to re-lease the premises upon completion of upgrading works in the initial phase, expected within three to four months. The entire PRTU project is expected to be completed within eight months, subject to approval from the relevant authorities.

"Regarding allegations that the project does not comply with legal requirements, including claims of a lack of Local Authority (PBT) approval, building plans and public safety measures, the developer is currently in the process of applying for approvals from the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) according to established procedures.

"PPSB continuously monitors this process to ensure full compliance with all legal and technical requirements, while from a safety perspective, PPSB always prioritises the safety of ferry passengers and the general public," the statement read.

PPSB further said that, to date, no physical barriers have been installed along ferry passenger walkways and no high-risk structural demolition works are currently underway. Continuous monitoring is being carried out to ensure the PRTU environment remains safe at all times.

It stressed that the development is being implemented in a planned manner to ensure a balance between physical development, economic interests, tenant welfare and user safety. Consequently, PPSB continues to work closely with the developer and the Penang Port Commission (PPC) to ensure the smooth progress of the development project.

-- BERNAMA