The proposed reclamation project, which extends from Jelutong Landfill to Karpal Singh Drive (approximately in front of Amway), is located at the Middle Bank deep channel (PLB – EIA Report, Page 6.35). This massive development threatens our environment, health, and quality of life.
Proposed reclamation site, from Jelutong Landfill to Karpal Singh Drive (approximately in front of Amway).
Source: PLB – EIA Report, Executive Summary, P.E1; B-001 Master Layout Plan
| Aspect | Details | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Land Area | 160 acres (90 acres landfill, 70 acres reclamation) | Large-scale disruption to environment |
| Waste Excavation | 11.3 million cubic meters | Risk of contamination, air pollution |
| Sand Used | 5.2 million cubic meters | Marine ecosystem disruption |
| On-site Recycling | A maximum of 20 recycling machines operating | Air & noise pollution |
| Increased Population | 93,578 persons | Increased traffic |
| Traffic (Peak Hours) | 1,246 pcu/hr (AM), 1,572 pcu/hr (PM) | Congestion, safety concerns |
| Construction Duration | 4 years for reclamation, 20 years development | Prolonged disruption to community |
Source: Data compiled from PLB – EIA Report
Construction noise from vehicles and recycle machinery could exceed acceptable levels (65 dB(A) daytime, 60 dB(A) nighttime), disrupting residents' sleep and daily activities. Read more
Source: PLB – EIA Report, Chapter 5
Construction and recycle activities may generate dust and toxic gaseous emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane, degrading the currently "good" air quality and causing respiratory issues. Read more
Source: PLB – EIA Report, Chapter 7, 9
Sharp population increase to 91,714. The proposed future traffic mitigation plan relies on unrealistic assumptions — 40% public transport usage—a fantasy in a car-dependent Penang! 1,246 pcu/hr in the morning and 1,512 pcu/hr in the evening will clog roads, making Karpal Singh Drive less livable. Read more
Source: PLB – EIA Report, Chapter 5, 7
The proposed reclamation area is located at the Middle Bank deep channel (PLB – EIA Report, Page 6.35) which is part of the proposed Middle Bank Marine Sanctuary (MBMS) that spans 10.5 km² of vital ecosystems—seagrass beds, mudflats, and mangroves—supporting everything from 139 commercial fish species to endangered turtles. Reclamation will smother these habitats, pollute waters with runoff, and sever the ecological lifeline of Penang’s seas. Read more
Wesley Methodist School Penang (International) is located in close proximity to the proposed development area. Hundreds of students will be exposed daily to hazardous air pollutants including PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, and toxic gases released during excavation. Construction noise will disrupt classroom learning and concentration for up to 24 years. Increased heavy vehicle traffic poses serious safety risks to students traveling to and from school. Potential long-term health impacts on developing children have not been adequately assessed in the EIA report.
The proposed 160-acre reclamation project at Jelutong Landfill and Karpal Singh Drive is NOT included in the officially approved Penang Structure Plan 2030. This represents a severe breach of the state's own strategic development blueprint designed to guide sustainable growth. The Structure Plan 2030 was developed through extensive public consultation and expert input to ensure balanced development that preserves Penang's natural, cultural, and social assets. Approving projects outside this carefully crafted framework undermines public trust in government planning processes and regulatory oversight. The absence of this massive development from the Structure Plan means its cumulative impacts alongside other approved projects have never been properly assessed. Allowing such significant deviations from established planning documents sets a dangerous precedent for future unplanned development throughout Penang.
Dozens of beloved local eateries along Karpal Singh Drive will face severe loss of business during the multi-decade construction period. Food safety will be compromised as airborne contaminants from construction settle on food preparation and eating areas. Karpal Singh Drive serves as a vital recreational hub for both locals and visitors from throughout Penang and beyond. The area's unique blend of scenic coastal views, dining options, and public spaces will be destroyed.
The development would diminish a public space specifically named to commemorate one of Penang's most distinguished citizens. Datuk Seri Karpal Singh's decades of service as a champion for justice and the rule of law deserve continued recognition in our urban landscape. The project fails to recognize Karpal Singh Drive's cultural and recreational significance as a gathering place for community events, exercise, and leisure activities. The irony of destroying a public space named after a defender of the public interest to benefit private developers cannot be overlooked. Future generations will lose an important connection to a significant figure in Penang's political and legal history.
Excavation, on-site recycling, reclamation, construction activities will clog roads, choke the air with dust, and rattle homes with noise. Excavating with a maximum of 20 waste recycling machines (the nearest just in front of Maritime), each processing 173 cubic meters per hour for 10 hours daily, will generate relentless noise, dust, and release toxic gases like methane, and odors into the air you breathe.
Source: PLB – EIA Report, Chapter 5
Reclaiming 160 acres will lock us out of our own sea for at least 24 years, benefiting the developers while offering no clear benefits to residents—just speculative "development" for the wealthy.
The robust scientific evidence is clear: the reclamation project poses an unacceptable risk to our health. It is imperative that we demand a reject to this project.
We call on all community members, scientists, and concerned citizens to join forces and protest this environmental injustice.
History shows that organized, evidence-based protest can drive change. Together, we can compel decision-makers to prioritize public health over reckless development. Your voice matters—demand a sustainable future!
Join the Protest TodayJoin us in opposing this harmful reclamation project. Together, we can preserve our coastal environment and community for future generations.
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