Penang's Taman Manggis Hospital and Hotel Project to Resume in August After Years of Delay

A stalled mixed-use development project in Taman Manggis, Penang, featuring a hospital and hotel, is slated to recommence in mid-August, marking a significant step forward after several years of inactivity.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow confirmed that the project will proceed without any alterations to the design plans previously approved by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP). The development involves constructing a 21-story hospital and hotel complex on a 4,061-square-meter plot of land.

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Yes, we will continue this project which involves the construction of a mixed hospital and hotel, 21 stories high, on a land area of approximately 4,061 square meters.

The Taman Manggis issue became a point of contention when the opposition questioned the project's delay, despite its approval in 2019. The land lot was leased to Kuala Lumpur International Dental Centre (KLIDC) for the project. Responding to queries, Kon Yeow stated that the state government, through the State Economic Planning Division (BPEN), had issued a formal letter to KLIDC on June 16th to ascertain the project's latest status, following years of the site remaining undeveloped.

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However, construction work at the time had to be halted due to various challenges including disruptions in the building material supply chain, labor shortages, increased construction costs, and project financing and cash flow problems.

KLIDC had obtained planning permission and a permit to commence work from MBPP in 2020, with piling work completed in October of the same year. However, construction halted due to various challenges, including disruptions in the building material supply chain, labor shortages, increased construction costs, and project financing and cash flow problems, according to Kon Yeow.

Project architectural consultant Nora Che Idris announced that the development will be revived as Victoria Hospital under KLIDC's new management. She added that five contractors have submitted bids for the main structure installation works, with technical and commercial evaluations currently underway. Construction is expected to begin in August and take 36 months to complete, aiming for full completion by August 2029.

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Construction work is expected to begin in August and will take 36 months until the Certificate of Practical Completion (CCC) is issued before this project is expected to be fully completed by August 2029.