“Penang sets April 15 deadline for landowners to vacate sites for PIL 2A highway project. RM24.27m in compensation paid; legal appeals ongoing.“
Penang, 09th Apr 2025, 12.18pm – The Penang state government has reaffirmed that land acquisitions under Phase 1 of the Pan Island Link 2A (PIL 2A) project are being carried out in full compliance with the Land Acquisition Act 1960, urging all affected parties to vacate their premises by April 15, 2025.
In a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office on Wednesday, the government clarified that the acquisition process is conducted under Section 3(1)(a) of the act, which allows land to be acquired for public purposes.
“This April 15 deadline marks the second extension, after the initial vacate deadline on February 28,” the statement noted, emphasising the need for smooth implementation of the state’s mega infrastructure project.
RM24.27 Million in Compensation Disbursed
The state responded to objections raised by 13 landowners who claimed that compensation was inadequate, stating that all compensation offers — including ex gratia payments — were made based on valuations by the Valuation and Property Services Department.
Since December, a total of RM24.27 million has been disbursed to affected landowners, tenants, and other stakeholders. Many received more than RM1.5 million each, while three individuals without land titles were granted RM43,500 each in ex gratia payments for structures located on government land.
Legal Objections and Ongoing Court Process
As of now, the District Land Administrator has received Form N objections from 30 parties involving 11 land lots, the statement added.
In accordance with the legal procedure, the administrator has up to six months to submit Form O for court reference, marking the next step in the judicial review of compensation decisions.
The Chief Minister’s Office reiterated that any disputes must be resolved through legal channels, and the final decision of the court must be respected by all involved parties.
Part of Penang Transport Master Plan
The 5.3km Phase 1 of PIL 2A is a critical segment of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP). Once completed, it will connect the state’s planned Silicon Island development to the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge, enhancing accessibility and easing traffic congestion.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow previously met with residents on January 14, where a Q&A session was held and a temporary stay until February 28 was granted.
