The Penang Technology Park in Bertam has received conditional approval from the Department of Environment (DoE).
The Penang Technology Park in Bertam has received conditional approval from the Department of Environment (DoE). The department stated in a statement that the developer would still be required to meet certain requirements following the conditional approval.
Only “green, clean, and high-technology industries” will be permitted to operate in the industrial park, and they must first obtain approval from the department.
“Another criterion is the use of zero discharge in all industrial plots. “This is to protect the water quality in nearby rivers,” it said, adding that these businesses should prioritise hiring locals.
It also stated that the developer must improve the roads leading into Bertam to avoid future traffic jams before the Penang Technology Park is fully operational.
It was reported last year that 1,662 Bertam residents had objected to the proposed development and centralised labour quarters. They expressed concern about the potential environmental risk as well as the impact on the social well-being of local communities.
A technology park, also known as a science park or research park, is an area designated for the development and growth of technology-based companies and industries.
These parks typically provide infrastructure and resources such as office space, research facilities, access to specialised equipment, funding opportunities, and networking opportunities with other companies and research institutions.
The goal of a technology park is to foster innovation and collaboration and to promote the growth of technology-based businesses. Some examples of technology parks include Silicon Valley in California, Research Triangle Park in North Carolina, and Kista Science City in Sweden.
The Department of Environment (DOE) in Malaysia is a government agency responsible for protecting and preserving the country’s natural environment and biodiversity. The DOE is responsible for enforcing environmental laws and regulations, monitoring environmental quality, and promoting public awareness and participation in environmental conservation.
The DOE also works closely with other government agencies and non-governmental organizations to implement sustainable development policies and programs.