Penang launches Silicon Island Experience Centre as reclamation reaches 200 hectares

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow made his inaugural vehicular trip to Silicon Island and officially opened the Silicon Island Experience Centre, a 2,500 sq ft interactive facility completed in four months at a cost of RM2.5 million. He emphasized that the project will serve as a strategic engine for Penang's economic growth over the next five decades, building on the state's 50-year semiconductor heritage and incorporating high-value manufacturing, R&D, and AI capabilities.

Zairil Khir Johari, chair of the state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee, explained that the centre bridges the master plan and its physical rollout, pointing to the PIL2A bridge that will link Permatang Damar Laut directly to the island and support seamless logistics. Datuk Seri Farizan Darus, CEO of Penang Infrastructure Corporation, reported that land reclamation has reached 200 ha and that the first 1.5 km marine bridge segment is slated for opening by December 2028, with full completion in June 2029. He also mentioned that more than RM30 million has been allocated to local fishermen under the Social Impact Management Plan and that ecological mitigation efforts are ongoing.