Chew and Lim Jetties in George Town set for upgrade

Upgrades to the historic Chew and Lim jetties in Weld Quay, George Town, are scheduled to commence next week with a total budget of RM400,000.

Tanjung MP Lim Hui Ying, who also serves as the Deputy Education Minister, has allocated RM200,000 for each jetty’s conservation project due to their significance within the George Town World Heritage Site.

The necessary materials have begun arriving, and construction is set to start in the coming week, with an estimated completion date by December this year.

Chew and Lim Jetties carries rich history and cultural value

The objective of this project is to restore and improve the existing conditions of the jetties, while simultaneously enhancing the quality of life for the local residents in these areas. These clan jetties hold a rich history and cultural value, and proactive measures will be taken to ensure their preservation during the upgrade process.

Safety concerns have arisen in recent times following an incident where a Singaporean tourist was injured due to stepping on a rotten plank. The upgrade aims to rectify such safety issues and ensure the well-being of both residents and tourists.

Lim Hui Ying, MP for Tanjong, initiated discussions with the then Pengkalan Kota assemblyman, Daniel Gooi, regarding the essential upgrades upon taking office. In May this year, she pledged RM200,000 for the Chew and Lim jetties’ renovation. Following a tendering process in June, the Northeast District and Land Office of Penang appointed a contractor for the project.

Positive impact on the local economy

The significance of these upgrades extends beyond safety, as Chew and Lim jetties have always been a major attraction for tourists. With their rich history and cultural value, the jetties draw in a substantial number of visitors. The renovation project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, potentially attracting even more tourists once completed.

During a site tour, Lim Hui Ying emphasized the importance of preserving these clan jetties’ historical and cultural significance. She reiterated that the conservation efforts would be an integral part of the upgrade process, ensuring that the heritage remains intact.

The press conference announcing the project was attended by various officials, including Daniel Gooi, the state executive councillor for Youth, Sports, and Health, who is now the Padang Lalang assemblyman; Wong Yuee Harn, the new Pengkalan Kota assemblyman; Muhammad Hijas Sahari, manager at the Department of Built Environment and Monitoring; Benji Ang Ming Quan, an MBPP councillor; Chan Kim Keat, the chairman of MPKK Clan Jetties; Chew Choon Seng, the chairman of Chew Jetty; and Lim Chin Hee, the chairman of Lim Jetty.

The RM400,000 upgrade of Chew and Lim jetties in Weld Quay, George Town, signifies a crucial step towards preserving cultural heritage and enhancing safety for both residents and tourists. With construction set to begin, the project aims to restore these historic clan jetties, which hold immense historical and cultural value.

Tanjung MP Lim Hui Ying’s commitment to the project and her allocation of RM200,000 for each jetty underscore the importance of these upgrades. The safety of the jetties has been a growing concern, and the renovation will address these issues, ensuring a safer experience for all visitors.

Furthermore, the project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy by attracting more tourists to the area. As the renovation work progresses, it is anticipated that the historical and cultural significance of Chew and Lim jetties will be preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate their heritage.

Source: Buletin Mutiara