'Public unclear on heritage guidelines, land use regulations'

New Straits Times

3 days ago

GEORGE TOWN: The demolition of a property that once belonged to the late tycoon Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew has renewed public concerns over Penang's approach to heritage preservation amid rapid urban development.
Penang Heritage Trust honorary treasurer Trevor Sibert said the episode highlighted a significant gap in public understanding of heritage guidelines, land use regulations and the roles of local authorities in approving developments.
"The issue shows there's a lack of awareness about what areas are protected and how decisions are made," he told the New Straits Times.
"The land in question is privately owned and the development was approved by the Penang Island City Council.
"Outside designated heritage zones, such actions are permitted by law."
Sibert clarified that only parts of George Town fell within the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage Site, and no Malaysian state has designated its entire area as a heritage zone.
"To subject an entire state to heritage controls would be impractical and hinder necessary development."
The demolition has reignited the ongoing debate between heritage conservation and modern development.
However, Sibert said, he believed this was not a matter of choosing one over the other.
"Every time a development is approved, accusations of profit over culture surface. But Penang needs to strike a balance.
"Development brings jobs, improves infrastructure and supports future generations.
"At the same time, heritage itself can be an economic driver through tourism."
Sibert also pointed to the loss of significant heritage sites in recent years, including Kampung Siam in Pulau Tikus and the gravesite of Foo Teng Nyong, the wife of historical figure Kapitan China Chung Keng Quee, calling them as "irreplaceable."
He said the Penang Heritage Trust continued to play an active role in conservation efforts.
It participates in the Technical Review Board under the Penang Island City Council and provides input on development proposals within the George Town World Heritage Sate.
Sibert said preservation, however, required collaboration among various bodies, not just non-governmental organisations.
He said among the recurring challenges were neglected heritage properties and buildings outside protection zones.
"Some owners abandon their properties or let them deteriorate to the point of being unsafe.
"It's difficult for the local council to manage these cases consistently."
Sibert said he believed the state government remained committed to heritage protection, citing the continued support for the George Town World Heritage Incorporated and consultation with Penang Heritage Trust.
"Penang's history is a source of pride and tourism appeal. The government knows this.
"But as with any administration, there is always room for improvement," he added.
The recent demolition has sparked public outcry, but Sibert hoped it would also encourage more people to get involved in heritage preservation.