Penang puzzled by protests as most 'Sore Thumb' demands met

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government is puzzled by protests over the Tanjung Bungah Seaside Pocket Park, saying that nearly all residents' demands have been accommodated.

Executive councillor Zairil Khir Johari said discussions involving the developer, Penang Island City Council, technical agencies and resident representatives had been underway since December 2025.

"Out of all issues raised by residents, only one issue remains pending.

"With the one remaining issue to be addressed in two weeks, it is fair to ask whose interests a protest at this stage serves."

Zairil said during the latest engagement on Oct 27, the developer agreed to integrate key community requests into the blueprint, including two public access points, native coastal planting and sufficient parking bays.

The matter is before the Appeal Board, with a follow-up hearing scheduled for Nov 19.

Ahead of that, the State Legal Adviser's Office will convene another consultation on Nov 16 with One Tanjong's management corporation, PlanMalaysia, Penang Island City Council, the Drainage and Irrigation Department and the developer.

Zairil said the project came at no cost to taxpayers and would transform the site into an accessible recreational green space featuring seaside walking paths, pavilions and slope stabilisation.

"Tanjung Bungah is a large and diverse community and this park is meant for all residents.

"The state will continue to listen to voices in the community, but we also urge the same community groups to continue working within the process rather than outside it," he added.