Khazanah's grant a timely boost for Penang tourism

 

The launch of a RM20 million grant by Khazanah Nasional Berhad's subsidiary Think City Sdn Bhd to rejuvenate George Town's heritage enclaves in Penang, could serve as a timely economic and tourism boost for the state.

The George Town Grants Programme or GTGP, is a move by the federal government to provide seed-funding for urban rejuvenation projects within the George Town World Heritage Site.

The grants, to be disbursed over a two year period, will support a series of small- scale initiatives, which are set to involve as many players as possible.

In ensuring that all stakeholders play an active role in the project, Think City is also working together with local government agencies, the state-owned World Heritage Office and public-interest groups to spur projects that promote and enhance George Town's priceless attributes.

Since the Rent Control Act was repealed, the heritage-rich inner city of George Town has witnessed a general sense of decline and decay, valuable heritage buildings have been abandoned, overgrown with bushes and in the case of some, either burnt down or left to crumble.

Heritage "icons" like those engaged in the dying trades for generations have not been acknowledged, assisted or encouraged to continue their businesses, while the residents and businesses in the area have migrated to other growth areas on the island or in Seberang Prai.

Although the GTGP is not aimed at providing financial assistance for routine maintenance and minor repairs of private properties, alterations and private interior work or construction work which is already underway in the city, the opportunities to kick-start many meaningful and viable projects are there for those interested.

By tapping into the small grants, individuals, businesses and other groups can now create direct and immediate impact to the local economy by preserving the city's cultural resources, while promoting social responsibility, bringing life back into the city and enriching the experience of a traveller.

For the research buff, projects can include databases, brochures, books, workshops, conferences, documentaries and short films on George Town's heritage site.

Public areas or those with high public access can now also be enhanced via projects such as conservation, restoration, revitalisation, beautification or capacity-building work.