PENANG PORT SDN BHD (PPSB) CLARIFIES DEVELOPMENT ISSUES AT PANGKALAN RAJA TUN UDA (PRTU) AREA, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO TRANSPARENCY AND PUBLIC SAFETY

BUTTERWORTH, 25 January 2026 – Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) wishes to inform that Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda (PRTU), George Town, is one of the primary installations under its management. PRTU serves as a main ferry terminal alongside Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH), Butterworth.

In line with current requirements and long-term port development planning, the area surrounding PRTU is planned for phased development as a commercial zone, with the goal of increasing the land-use value, boosting local economic activity, and providing more comfortable, safe, and user-friendly facilities for the public and tourists.

PPSB refers to several allegations and issues raised recently regarding the development works currently being implemented in the PRTU area. PPSB consistently evaluates the concerns of the community and stakeholders,and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring every development project is conducted transparently, with integrity, and in accordance with all established regulations.

Regarding allegations that there was no consultation with existing tenants prior to project implementation, it is informed that an engagement session was held on 29 December 2025 involving PPSB, the developer, and all affected tenants. This session aimed to provide detailed explanations of the development planning, the implementation period, and its implications for business operations. As a result of the meeting, all tenants agreed to vacate their premises to allow development works to proceed without any formal objections. An understanding was reached through open and constructive discussion, under which the tenants will be given priority for re-rental after the completion of upgrading works in the initial phase within 3 to 4 months. The overall project and development activities at PRTU are expected to be completed within 8 months, subject to approval from the relevant authorities.

Regarding allegations that this project does not comply with the required conditions, including the lack of approval from the Local Authority (PBT), building plans, and public safety measures, the developer is currently pursuing approval from the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) in accordance with established procedures. This process is monitored continuously by PPSB to ensure full compliance with all legal and technical requirements.

From a safety perspective, PPSB always prioritises the safety of ferry passengers and the public. To date, no physical barriers have been installed on the passenger walkways, and no risky structural demolition works are currently underway. Continuous monitoring is consistently conducted to maintain a safe environment at PRTU at all times.  

At present, the main route for the public at PRTU is still operating as usual without any disruption. When major construction works begin later, PPSB will ensure that public access remains a priority in every planning and execution phase of the development project, and that safe and appropriate alternative routes are provided for the convenience of the public and ferry passengers.

Furthermore, regarding allegations about the transparency of the lease award process, it is clarified that the dealings between PPSB and the developer, GIC Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. (GICCSB) only involves a sub-lease in the area. The contract awarded to GICCSB to develop the PRTU area was carried out transparently through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. Additionally, no government or public funds are involved in any transactions between GICCSB and PPSB, as alleged. PPSB wishes to emphasise that development in the port area is implemented in a planned manner to ensure a balance between physical development, economic interests, tenant welfare, and user safety.

In this regard, PPSB will continue to work closely with the developer and relevant agencies, including the Suruhanjaya Pelabuhan Pulau Pinang (SPPP), to ensure this development project runs smoothly, complies with regulations, and benefits all stakeholders.

Thank You.