GEORGE TOWN: A fresh submission of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the Penang South Reclamation (PSR) project will be submitted by March next year, says Chow Kon Yeow.

       The Penang Chief Minister said among others, the EIA would have new data and updated information.

       “At the moment, we are collecting and updating information from the community, along with collecting data on social impact.

       “This will enable the consultants to analyse and put up appropriate proposals. The EIA will be submitted no later than March, followed by a public display for a month before the Department of Environment evaluates the submission and makes a decision,” he said.

       Earlier, the EIA for PSR was rejected by the Federal Government.

       Following this, the state government and its partner SRS Consortium (SRS) said they would submit a fresh EIA report.

       Chow said that since the EIA had not been approved, the project could not be implemented.

       “We were very close to making the tenders but all these had to be stopped for the time being.

       “Together with SRS Consortium, we are committed to seeing the project through but it will not proceed without approval,” he said.

       Chow added that they were looking at engagement sessions not only with the community but also with industrial leaders.

       “This will open up opportunities to investors, especially since many have expressed their interest.

       “In this case, we are also prepared to adhere to environmental, social and governance factors as well,” he said.