SAM challenges approval of Penang Hill cable car project

Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM), an environmental NGO, has expressed concerns regarding the approval process for the Penang Hill Cable Car project.

The group contends that the Department of Environment (DOE) Director General erred in approving the project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report without public consultation.

Public consultation bypassed?

SAM argues that the project falls under the Environmental Quality (Prescribed Activities) (Environmental Impact Assessment) Order 2015.

This order mandates public display and comment for all transportation-related activities listed in the 2nd Schedule.

SAM interprets the cable car project, designed to transport 1,000 passengers per hour according to Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) General Manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng, as a “mass rapid transport project” subject to public scrutiny.

Furthermore, SAM highlights the environmental sensitivity of the project area. The cable car line traverses Penang Hill, a biosphere reserve, and the Penang Botanical Gardens.

The group emphasises that sections of the route traverse steep slopes exceeding a 35-degree gradient, further strengthening their argument for a mandatory public consultation process under the 2nd Schedule.

Concerns raised for cable car project

SAM questions the assurances from authorities regarding the project’s minimal environmental impact, citing the planned relocation of only 50 trees.

The group maintains that the public has the right to independently assess these claims.

They emphasise that legal requirements for public display and comment on the EIA report must be followed, particularly considering the project’s scale, location on steep slopes, and its impact on environmentally sensitive areas.

SAM further emphasises the lack of transparency regarding Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) studies, which are typically required for projects seeking planning approval under the Town and Country Planning Act 1976.

SAM urges both the DOE and the Penang State Government to make public the EIA, SIA, and TIA reports.

They advocate for a halt to further construction until the public has had an opportunity to provide feedback on the project. The group contends that a lack of transparency undermines public trust and good governance practices.

Penang Hill and the Botanic Gardens are popular destinations, and SAM underscores the importance of public interest in this project. Public display of the relevant assessments would not only fulfill legal requirements but also demonstrate good governance and allow for valuable public input.