BUTTERWORTH, 23 February 2024 - Think City, an impact organisation dedicated to enhancing the liveability, sustainability, and inclusivity of cities, announced the Levelling Up Seberang Perai Programme. Supported by the Ministry of Finance (MOF), the inaugural programme introduces comprehensive and actionable plans, including a visionary strategy for Seberang Perai, environmental and conservation education, and the revitalisation of small townships and neighbourhoods. Commencing this initiative is the Seberang Perai Grants Programme, offering grants up to RM200,000. This programme aims to empower local communities and propel the historical towns of Seberang Perai towards a green, sustainable, and inclusive future.

Seberang Perai, home to a significant portion of Penang’s population and land area, has undergone rapid urbanisation and growth, contributing to the state’s overall product. Despite facing urban challenges, such as transportation, urban sprawl, and climate change, recent analysis paints a promising outlook for Seberang Perai. With a focus on empowering its residents, the Grants Programme provides funding ranging from RM 25,000 to RM 200,000 for grassroots projects under five specialised themes:

Quality of Life: Enhancing services and amenities, supporting projects such as upgrading parks or public spaces, and introducing public art initiatives.

Celebrating Heritage: Honouring local history and culture, including projects like façade improvements of heritage buildings and raising awareness of local history.

Sense of Community: Building stronger communities through the activation of community centres, organising events, and establishing markets for social interaction.

Healthy Environment: Keeping Seberang Perai clean and green with programmes aimed at township cleanliness, waste management, and environmental activities to reduce pollution.

Improved Livelihoods: Creating more training and job opportunities, with projects like skills training in traditional trades, enhancing tourism ventures, and urban farming initiatives.

“The Levelling Up Seberang Perai Programme is strategically aligned with key national and local development frameworks,” stated Minister of Finance II, YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah. He added, “This transformative initiative, supported by MOF, aims to re-energise local communities and enhance economic prospects. The assets and untapped potential of Seberang Perai, combined with the aspirations of its people, exemplify new economic engines crucial to Malaysia's MADANI economic framework, dedicated to reshaping the economy, and ensuring equitable rewards for citizens.”

Penang Chief Minister, YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, emphasised Seberang Perai’s pivotal role in the Penang2030 and the Digital Penang visions. He stated, “The Levelling Up Seberang Perai Programme complements our commitment to a sustainable and inclusive Penang. With the Seberang Perai Local Plan 2030, we envision a smarter, greener, and more vibrant Penang, emphasising community welfare and environmental preservation.”

Think City, established nearly 15 years ago by Khazanah Nasional Berhad, was seen to be starting a nationwide movement after its successful effort in rejuvenating George Town when it was newly recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2014, Think City expanded its efforts to Seberang Perai, aligning with the Third National Physical Plan (NPP-3) to catalyse the development of Butterworth as a primary city.

Hamdan Abdul Majeed, Managing Director of Think City, commented: "Seberang Perai's rapid urbanisation presents bright opportunities for growth and economic prosperity. Our commitment is to guide its trajectory toward a sustainable future, drawing upon our experience in Penang since 2009. We aim to co-create a future that embodies liveability, sustainability, and inclusivity, ensuring every community member participates in this transformative journey."

The Grants Programme is accepting applications from 22 January 2024. Think City invites changemakers, visionaries, and community members to participate in this journey to uplift Seberang Perai. Support and strategic guidance will be available throughout the application process. Potential applicants are encouraged to attend one of the planned clinics prior to submission. For more information, please visit thinkcity.com.my, and/or contact via +6011 1119 4737, email to [email protected].