Butterworth, 23rd February 2024 – Think City, an impact organization committed to enhancing the livability, sustainability, and inclusivity of urban areas, has unveiled the Levelling Up Seberang Perai Programme.

In collaboration with the Finance Ministry(MOF), this pioneering initiative introduces a comprehensive strategy aimed at rejuvenating Seberang Perai, encompassing environmental education, neighborhood revitalization, and a visionary urban development plan.

Kicking off this endeavor is the Seberang Perai Grants Programme, offering grants of up to RM200,000. This initiative aims to empower local communities and propel Seberang Perai’s historical towns towards a greener, sustainable, and more inclusive future.

Seberang Perai, a significant hub within Penang, has witnessed rapid urbanization and growth, contributing substantially to the state’s overall development.

Despite grappling with urban challenges such as transportation issues, urban sprawl, and climate change, recent analyses project a promising outlook for Seberang Perai.

Focused on empowering its residents, the Grants Programme provides funding ranging from RM25,000 to RM200,000 for grassroots projects falling under five specialized themes:

1. Quality of Life: Enhancing services and amenities, supporting projects like park upgrades and public art initiatives.
2. Celebrating Heritage: Honoring local history and culture through projects such as heritage building renovations and historical awareness campaigns.
3. Sense of Community: Strengthening community ties by activating community centers, organizing events, and establishing social interaction platforms.
4. Healthy Environment: Promoting cleanliness and sustainability through township cleanup efforts, waste management initiatives, and environmental awareness programs.
5. Improved Livelihoods: Creating employment and skill-building opportunities through projects like vocational training, tourism development, and urban farming initiatives.

Minister of Finance II, YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah, emphasized the strategic alignment of the Levelling Up Seberang Perai Programme with national and local development frameworks.

He stated, “This transformative initiative, supported by MOF, aims to revitalize local communities and enhance economic prospects. The untapped potential of Seberang Perai, coupled with the aspirations of its people, exemplifies the new economic engines crucial to Malaysia’s MADANI economic framework.”

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, underscored Seberang Perai’s pivotal role in the Penang2030 and Digital Penang visions.

He remarked, “The Levelling Up Seberang Perai Programme aligns with our commitment to a sustainable and inclusive Penang. With the Seberang Perai Local Plan 2030, we envision a smarter, greener, and more vibrant Penang, emphasizing community welfare and environmental preservation.”

Think City, established nearly 15 years ago by Khazanah Nasional Berhad, has been instrumental in revitalizing urban areas nationwide. Building on its successful efforts in George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Think City expanded its initiatives to Seberang Perai in 2014, aligning with the Third National Physical Plan (NPP-3) to catalyze Butterworth’s development as a primary city.

Hamdan Abdul Majeed, Managing Director of Think City, expressed the organization’s commitment to guiding Seberang Perai toward a sustainable future. “We aim to co-create a future that embodies liveability, sustainability, and inclusivity,” he stated. “Our experience in Penang since 2009 equips us to embark on this transformative journey, ensuring every community member’s participation.”

The Grants Programme is currently accepting applications, inviting changemakers, visionaries, and community members to join in uplifting Seberang Perai. Support and strategic guidance are available throughout the application process, with planned clinics scheduled to aid potential applicants.

For more information, please visit thinkcity.com.my or contact via +6011 1119 4737 or email at spgrants@thinkcity.com.my.