Penang: Penang today launched its Publicity and Public Participation Programme for the Final Report of the Draft of the Penang Silicon Island Local Plan (RTPSI) 2050, which was specifically designed for a greenfield area or fully reclaimed development. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the RTPSI 2050, which is the first Local Plan in Malaysia, integrates Geographic Information Systems and Building Information Modelling (GeoBIM) databases, a digital revolution that makes planning documents more flexible, adaptive and investor-friendly.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chow emphasized that the Silicon Island development is seen as a new canvas for the state to draft a future city that is progressive, sustainable, and resilient. He stated at the launch that the project is not merely a land reclamation initiative but a "new canvas" for building a future city model that balances rapid economic progress and environmental sustainability.

Chow further explained that the artificial island is targeted to become a 930.777-hectare (2,300-acre) Global Gateway capable of addressing the shortage of industrial land in the state. The project is expected to contribute an economic impact of up to RM1.1 trillion to the country's Gross Domestic Product by 2050.

Additionally, Chow highlighted that a total of 220,000 new jobs are expected to be created, spanning the high-tech, creative economy, and modern services sectors. He urged the public to seize the opportunity during the publicity period until May 8 to submit their views as co-creators of the development of Silicon Island.

The Silicon Island is a Penang-owned reclamation project developed by the state government to ensure long-term economic growth.