PENANG | Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) Development News

[nazrey]

15 years to complete RM18b Penang City Centre
By DAVID TAN


BUTTERWORTH: The RM18bil Penang City Centre (PCC) project by Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, an associate company of Equine Capital Bhd, will take 15 years to complete.

Equine holds a 25% stake in Abad Naluri, which is developing PCC on the 260-acre site where the Penang Turf Club is presently located.

The PCC is one of the projects highlighted in the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) blueprint.

Equine executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim said two award-winning architects, one each from New York and Paris, would design the project.

“Hani Rashid from Asymptote Architecture in New York will design the architecture, which includes two iconic towers, while Nasrine Seraji from Atelier Seraji in Paris will design the master plan,” he told reporters after the launch of the NCER Penang portion blueprint by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi yesterday.

Lim said the PCC master plan would be unveiled in September while the project would be launched in eight to 12 months.

The first phase would involve the development of a 26-acre park, and road infrastructure to smoothen the traffic flow for the project, he said.

“The park will be connected to the Botanical Garden. We will use the technologies such as thermal treatment, to develop PCC into a carbon-free city,” he said.

“We want to make PCC the first such city in the world. Shanghai is planning to be carbon free, but we are ready to implement the technologies to make it happen in PCC soon.”

Lim said the PCC project would have two five-star hotels, commercial and residential properties, and a state-of-the-art cultural centre.

Lim said there were many options to fund the project, including joint ventures and issuing capital bonds.

“We are also applying for MSC status to attract information and communications technology companies to set up regional offices at the park.”

On the Penang International Equestrian Centre in Batu Kawan, Lim said Abad Naluri would start work on the centre once construction work commenced on the second Penang bridge.

[nazrey]

The Site

http://img374.imageshack.us/img374/84/penangturfclub19bp.jpg

[nazrey]

The first proposal of PGCC designed by Asymptote.



http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/1190/mutiaracomplexpenangprodq8.jpg

[nazrey]

Equine associate to build RM140m flyovers at PGCC
Thursday August 30, 2007
By DAVID TAN


http://biz.thestar.com.my/archives/2007/8/30/business/p8=penangglobalcitycentre.JPG

Datuk Patrick Lim with an artist impression of the Penang Global City Centre


PENANG: Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, an associate of Equine Capital Bhd, is spending about RM140mil to build two flyovers to connect the RM25bil Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) project with the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR).

Equine holds a 25% stake in Abad Naluri, which is developing PGCC on the 260-site where the Penang Turf Club is now located.

Equine executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim said the flyovers would come with underpasses.

“We are working with MHA (Malaysian Highway Authority) to determine how the flyovers, which are part of our traffic infrastructure project, could complement PORR and three other chain roads in smoothening traffic flow,” he told a media briefing.

Lim said construction work on the traffic infrastructure, which forms the first phase of PGCC, would start next year.



“The phase will take about three years to complete,” he said, adding that its cost would be disclosed later.

Lim also said Abad Naluri would commit a substantial portion of the gross development value of PGCC for the creation of a green environment.

“About 40% of the project would be green and open spaces,” he said.

Abad Naluri would build facilities in PGCC to reduce carbon monoxide, recycle heat and treat waste, he said, adding: “These facilities will be put in place as we want to make PGCC a carbon-free city.”

Lim added that PGCC would be a “city of tomorrow”.

“We will not have the biggest or tallest tower in PGCC. We want PGCC to have good values and iconic buildings that will give it a unique identity.”

Scheduled for completion in 15 years, PGCC will have two five-star hotels, commercial and residential properties, and a state-of-the-art cultural centre.

Lim said the PGCC project would be officially launched on Sept 12.

[nazrey]

BizFocus:
Equine's ambitious plan to bring new shine to Penang
By Marina Emmanuel
September 3 2007

THE face of Penang island is set to change with the entry of property player Equine Capital Bhd.

The company, via associate Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, wants to create a world-class and self-contained city in George Town where eco-living, architectural icons and high technology rule.

The "Penang Global City Centre" (PGCC), with an estimated gross development value (GDV) of RM25 billion, will be sited on a 104ha plot where the Penang Turf Club currently stands.

It is billed as the largest commercial development in Penang. Equine Capital holds a 25 per cent stake in Abad Naluri.

"We want to offer solutions for tomorrow's city and enhance the Penang brand name," Equine executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim said.

"This new city centre for Penang will incorporate many technology- and ecology-based components, and will be modelled along the lines of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre."

The project will be marketed as one of the world's first zero-carbon cities where pollution will be kept to a minimum.

It will offer tax breaks to technology firms wishing to set up shop as PGCC will have Multimedia Super Corridor status, Lim added.

While Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates is slated to emerge as the world's first zero-carbon city by 2009, other countries around the world which are developing similar cities include China and the US.

The eco-city development on the island is expected to include a 10.4ha public park which will be linked to the Penang Botanical Gardens and the Municipal Youth Park.

There will also be two five-star hotels, a performing arts centre, high-end retail outlets, two iconic towers, residential properties and a world-class meeting and convention centre.

Plans are also in place to promote medical tourism in the state through specialist clinics at the PGCC.

"With an estimated 2,000 tourists visiting Penang annually for elective surgery, we think we can add value to the medical tourism promotional effort by offering state-of-the-art healthcare residences for these visitors," Lim said.

Also in the pipeline are urban and international schools and a monorail service.

Abad Naluri has appointed international architects for the project.

French architect Nasrine Seraji is the overall master planner. The New York-based Asymptote Architecture will design the iconic Penang Towers, with an estimated GDV of RM8 billion, which will be a focal point of the PGCC.

The PGCC's public realm will comprise a combined 34.4ha of parkland, including a 10.4ha 1km-long linear park, and about 24ha of a hill site which cannot be developed.

Close to 40 per cent of the PGCC will be dedicated to being "green" in the form of parks and open spaces, Lim added.

Other proposed measures include devising ways to collect and reuse rainwater, the construction of a central cooling plant and a waste-management system.

Lim is also mindful of concern that the project is likely to add to the island's long-standing and worsening traffic problems.

"We are working with the Malaysian Highway Authority on how our road infrastructure will complement three chain roads and the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) which will cut through the PGCC," he said.

Abad Naluri will invest RM140 million to build two flyovers to mitigate traffic congestion from George Town's Jalan Scotland to the project site.

"We have also conducted traffic impact studies with a consultant, not only for this project but also for the whole island, and have alternative solutions for traffic in the event that the ring road project is delayed."

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is expected to launch the PGCC project on September 12, at which event he will announce special investment incentives.

The project will be carried out in phases over 15 years and will break ground in a year.

UOB Kay Hian, in an investors' report, said that plans were in place for a new integrated transport hub to be set up at the PGCC.

"The hub will host a major interchange for the Penang monorail's two lines.

"In addition, the 17km PORR will run through the new city centre, with its proposed route from the Penang International Airport to Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi," it said.

[pedang]

http://www.sinchew-i.com/images/photo/2007/08/01/0041b.jpg

[built_in_me]

guys...whats the progress of this project...i know it hasn't started....but any idea on when this masterplan is gonna commence.....

[pedang]

^^


Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is expected to launch the PGCC project on September 12, at which event he will announce special investment incentives.

[nazrey]

Shot in the arm for PGCC
Wednesday September 5, 2007
By DAVID TAN


PENANG: Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, an associate company of Equine Capital Bhd, is investing approximately RM40mil into the development of a 40ha Metropolitan Park in the 104ha Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) development.

Equine Capital holds a 25% stake in Abad Naluri, the developer of the RM25bil PGCC which is located at the present Penang Turf Club site.

The state government had recently approved the conversion of the 104ha PGCC land for mixed-development use.

The PGCC, patterned after the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, will feature two five-star hotels, a performing arts centre, high-end retail outlets, two iconic towers, residential properties and a world-class meeting and convention centre.

Equine Capital executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim said in an earlier interview that the Metropolitan Park would be linked to the Youth Park and Botanical Garden.

“The state government will acquire some additional land to link the Metropolitan Park with the Youth Park and Botanical Garden to form one contiguous park,” he said.

“In the Metropolitan Park, we plan to put in place public recreational facilities, water features, garden pavilions and amphitheatres.

“To maintain PGCC as a carbon-free city, there will be facilities built to reduce carbon monoxide. Solar lighting will be used at night.

“With such environmentally friendly technology, the carbon footprint of our park will be minimised, all of which will contribute to our quest to build one of the first zero-carbon developments in the region,” he said.

Lim said that the development of PGCC would create some 5,000 construction jobs.

“Once completed, PGCC will potentially employ about 37,000 workers, required by corporate offices, the medical services, the retail sector, and the hotel and MICE (Meeting Incentives Convention Exhibition) industries,” he said.

According to Raine & Horne (Penang) senior partner Michael Geh, the Metropolitan Park would boost the PGCC’s land value beyond “the current peak net value of RM250 per sq ft (psf) of net for commercial development land.”

Penang’s current (peak) prices are only a quarter of those of the current prime commercial redevelopment land prices in Kuala Lumpur’s golden triangle and near the Kuala Lumpur city centre, which are over RM1,000 psf.

[Max the Swede]

Really original

[nazrey]

Unique design planned for PGCC
Wednesday September 12, 2007
By DAVID TAN


PENANG: The RM25bil Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) will feature architectural themes that synthesise local symbolism and historic forms with contemporary-style designs.

Asymptote Architecture principal Hani Rashid said he spent over a year researching Penang’s culture, history, social patterns and way of life before designing the project.

“We design the buildings to blend with the surrounding hills and greenery,” he told a media briefing yesterday.

Rashid and his team – comprising about 60 architects, engineers, and technicians from London, New York and Hong Kong – spent four years designing PGCC, which is being developed by Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd on the present 260-acre Penang Turf Club site.

Abad Naluri is an associate company of Equine Capital Bhd.

“The buildings are also designed to save power, harnessing the forces of nature, such as sunlight and wind, for natural lighting and ventilation purposes.

“They must fit into a carbon-free city scheme.

“We have six engineers from Atelier 10, a reputable environmental engineering company with offices in New York and London, working on the plans for PGCC,” Rashid said.

He said the project had caught the attention of his colleagues in the architectural circle in the US. “They are paying close attention to the project. The last time Malaysia caught their attention was the Multimedia Super Corridor,” he added.

Rashid, who has been working from an office in Kuala Lumpur on PGCC for the past two years, said he would set up an office in Penang soon to monitor the project.

Born in Cairo, Rashid holds a masters degree in architecture from Cranbrook Academy of Art in the US, and has been lecturing at the Columbia University School of Architecture and Planning since 1989.

Among the projects he is presently involved in are the World Business Centre in Busan, South Korea; the Luxury Residential Tower and Guggenheim Contemporary Art Pavillions in the United Arab Emirates and Alessi Flagship Store in New York.

[hetfield85]

PGCC boost for Penang

By ZARINAH DAUD

PENANG: Three decades after being dubbed the “silicon island”, Penang is set to move on to the world stage as a global city centre.

The RM25bil Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) masterplan, covering 104ha at site of the Penang Turf Club, was unveiled yesterday by Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

The project will comprise, among others, hotels, condominiums, commercial centres and a central park.

The Prime Minister, a Penang boy, said this would be a “meaningful” project to the state and country.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2007/9/13/nation/n_pg04global.jpg
Futuristic appearance: An artist’s impression of the Penang Global City Centre.

“As Prime Minister, I know that it will contribute significantly to the national economy,” Abdullah said.

“While Kuala Lumpur has its KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre), Penang will have its very own PGCC. Both make me proud.

“PGCC is a high-impact project to complement the Northern Corridor Economic Region. I know Penang will do well,” he said when unveiling the masterplan at a hotel here.

Also present were Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, Equine Capital executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim and Abad Naluri chairman Datuk Seri Kamal Hashim.

Abad Naluri, an associate company of Equine Capital Bhd, will undertake the project.

Abdullah, who is the Finance Minister, said PGCC would offer excellent facilities to foreign investors and an alternative avenue for them to set up offshore offices beyond the Klang Valley.

“This project will make the northern region viable for economic development. I hope this project will be implemented as soon as possible after getting the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities,'' he added.

Abdullah thanked the Penang Turf Club for allowing the development of PGCC.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2007/9/13/nation/n_pg04launch.jpg
In it goes: Abdullah inserting a crystal key to mark the launching of the Penang Global City Centre project at a hotel in Penang yesterday. With him are (from left) Kamal, Dr Koh and Lim.

“If it is not for them, this will not happen,” he remarked.

Abad Naluri bought the land for RM488mil in 2002 when the Penang Turf Club committee felt that the existing facility could no longer cope with the demands of modern-day racing.

In Butterworth later, ZULKIFLY MOHAMAD reports that Abdullah presented Ramadan aid to 22 mosque representatives at the Seberang Jaya mosque.

He also dispensed some important advice to the people: “Drive home safely for the Hari Raya break.”

Reminding everyone that the festive period was a time when many road fatalities occurred, Abdullah said he wanted to remind them of this on the first day of the fasting month itself.

“I hope parents will advise their children to drive carefully when they return home to celebrate Hari Raya.

Abdullah also called on mosque committees to organise more activities during Ramadan to foster closer relations among Muslims.

[haze]

model of the PGCC

http://www.myimagehub.com/files/direct/1065/pgcctowers.jpg (http://www.myimagehub.com/files/view/1065/pgcctowers.jpg)

[oshkoshbgood]

why this project underrated...?the design is much much impressive than others on this 'General Urban Development' thread...!

[rembau1958]

Looks like something out of Star Trek or Stargate

[TYW]

why this project underrated...?the design is much much impressive than others on this 'General Urban Development' thread...!

because people have not heard of Penang before :lol: :lol:

[haze]

moving this thread pls!

[Skyprince]

The Site

http://img374.imageshack.us/img374/84/penangturfclub19bp.jpg

Is that Bayan Lepas Airport ?

[jlshyang]

Is that Bayan Lepas Airport ?

No. That's the Penang Turf Club.

[Athenax]

Nice futuristic design!

[connected_]

More renders of this beautiful project

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_1_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%201.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_2_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%202.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_3_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%203.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_4_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%204.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_6_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%206.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_5_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%205.jpg

[jieloe]

^^ :rock: :rock: :rock: :rock:

[Adam Tan]

Cool man!! anyway where you get this pic?

[allan_dude]

Welcome to Futurama! Very Nice.

[Mojim]

More renders of this beautiful project

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_1_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%201.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_2_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%202.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_3_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%203.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_4_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%204.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_6_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%206.jpg
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1422_5_1000%20Asymptote%20PGCC%205.jpg
I just have to log in and post to say that...this project is going to be AWESOME!!! Oh my gosh!, those renders are beautiful...definitely can't wait for this project to rise up :cheers:

[nazrey]

Abad Naluri to woo foreigners to Penang project
By Marina Emmanuel
September 26 2007


The company aims to promote Penang as a carbon-zero city to foreign managers and investment houses in New York, London, Paris, Shanghai, Tokyo and those in the Middle East

AN INTERNATIONAL roadshow to attract foreign investors to the RM25 billion Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) project will take off next month by its developers Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd.

The associate company of Equine Capital Bhd will target top foreign managers and investment houses in cities like New York, London, Paris, Shanghai, Tokyo and those in the Middle East, its chairman Datuk Seri Kamal Hashim said yesterday.

"We intend to promote Penang as one of the first carbon-zero global cities during this promotion.

"Abad Naluri is also exploring other financial options to raise funds to launch the project and complete it on time," he said in a statement.

The PGCC, which was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi two weeks ago, is expected to break ground in a year and will take 15 years to complete.

The project will be sited on the existing 104ha Penang Turf Club land in George Town, which Abad Naluri bought for RM488 million in 2002.

The PGCC, a high-impact project in the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER), will house two iconic towers, a performing arts centre, upscale retail shopping outlets, a convention centre, serviced apartments and high-end condominiums.

Its developers have said it will add almost 40 more hectares of public park in the state which when linked to the Municipal Youth Park and Botanic Gardens in future, will form a larger Metropolitan Park in the state.

Kamal said while waiting for the due process to go through before the ground-breaking of the project, Abad Naluri will put on public display the scale model of the PGCC and all related information.

"Once this is done," he added, "the public will be able to obtain all the information they want about the PGCC.

"We want to be transparent about what we want to develop on the Turf Club land, and displaying the scale model is a continuation of the open approach Abad Naluri has employed."

[nazrey]

PGCC will comply with conditions, says developer
Friday September 28, 2007


PENANG: The developer of the RM25bil Penang Global City Centre has defended the massive project saying that it would comply with the requirements on density and environment.

Equine Capital Bhd executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim said that although the company had proposed to build 37 buildings on the existing 104ha Penang Turf Club, it would abide by the Penang Municipal Council’s conditions on density.

“We proposed to build 30 residential blocks, two iconic towers, five office buildings and 100 bungalows. The buildings will be between 30 and 40 storeys but we have outlined a comprehensive traffic dispersal system similar to the Kuala Lumpur City Centre.

“The project will be carried out in parcels and the first one will be the infrastructure, iconic towers, car parks and 40ha public park,” he said yesterday. PGCC is undertaken by Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, an associate company of Equine Capital Bhd.

Lim refuted allegations that the company failed to disclose the project proper, saying that public forums and seminars were conducted to inform the public about it.

He said Abad Naluri followed every procedure imposed by MPPP, state government and the National Implementation Task Force.

Responding to allegations that Abad Naluri launched the project before the planning approval by the council, Lim said the company submitted the plan last year.

Earlier, Jesselton residents attended a closed-door meeting with MPPP president Datuk Zainal Rahim Seman to raise their concerns.

[jlshyang]

wow!! Very nice renderings! I hope it will be at least half completed when i go back to Penang!

[adverg]

Whose foreign architect design that complex? Was it Calatrava or Norman Foster?

[nazrey]

Whose foreign architect design that complex? Was it Calatrava or Norman Foster?

Asymptote Architecture announces the design of Penang Global City Center

Asymptote’s design for the PGCC complex is centered on the idea of creating a new and powerful image for the city of Penang and the new initatives associated with the development of the Northern Corridor of Malaysia. The design achieves its elegance and stature through the simultaneous embrace of natural landscapes and contemporary urbanism. The PGCC will become a vital new precinct that complements and enhances the unique characteristics that typify Penang as a remarkable island metropolis. The design of the iconic towers in particular draws inspiration from not only the lushness and drama of the surrounding mountains and seascapes, but also from the rich and diverse cultural heritage that makes up the Malaysian nation and Penang in particular. The forms of the two towers are comprised of both horizontal and vertical elements: sculpted horizontal components move across the plinth, rise up and transform into articulated vertical structures. Set against the backdrop of the nature reserve of Penang Hill, the twisting, glass façades of the towers “perform” various surface effects—reflecting, refracting and distorting views of Penang, the surrounding landscape and the seascape beyond. The vast, cascading plinth, which functions as a public plaza with multiple gathering spaces, are venues for the performing arts center, convention center and various facilities for residential, office and urban life.

Source : worldarchitecturenews (http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=1422)

[adverg]

Thanks for the update, Wah their portfolio, very impressive....... Its the start of space age

[adverg]

I you don't mind, I just want to ask something, in fact even me was impressed with the design. On your point of view, since the concept depicts a very futuristic generation of developments, how do this complex will benchmark the totallity of development of Penang 15 years from now. Base on what I see about the Penang development, it is just a typical development of the whole Malaysian style. If this whole thing will complete by that time, was it not obvious that this structure look like it was isolated from the whole Penang development and it seems it came from other world. Does it compliment to the whole development. Is there any plans to the foreground of this complex that can mach this concept so it wont look like this is an isolated structure. Secondly, with respect to the designer, base only on the drawing, it seems there is no security barriers in between levels of this outdoor grounds. You can see the height and if there is no glass railings around this, this is dangerous to someone to walk beside it most especially kids. This is just my observation, hope it won't offend it. Can I have any response on my message.

[nazrey]

Keep an open mind on PGCC
Saturday September 29, 2007


PENANG: Residents living in the vicinity of the proposed RM25bil Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) are not against development but they are concerned about the socio-ecological impact of the mega project.

Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said the developer and residents should keep an open mind and listen to each other’s points of view.

“The Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) will hold a public hearing to address the matter and make the public fully understand (the rationale behind the implementation of the mega project),” he said after closing the Chi-nese Education Convention organised by Ma-laysia National Association of Headmasters here yesterday.

Dr Koh said the developer had already addressed some of the big issues raised such as anticipated traffic congestion and impact of the project on the environment.

“We have the Federal Government's backing to improve the existing infrastructure to ease traffic congestion.

“The Penang Outer Ring Road project and proposed flyover on Scotland Road are in the pipeline.

“We are also promoting integrated public transportation system that include better bus services,” he said.

PGCC, which will be built on the existing 104ha Penang Turf Club land, is undertaken by Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, an associate company of Equine Capital Bhd.

The chief minister said the project complied with the ruling that no development is allowed above 76m in hilly areas and the environment therefore would be protected.

Earlier after opening the ABN AMRO Bank Bhd branch in Beach Street, Dr Koh said PGCC would provide 20,000 job opportunities to locals that would further spur economic growth.

He also said that it was important to find new growth areas to maintain a healthy eco-nomy.

State DAP chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the council should not only consult the views of the adjoining landowners as the mammoth project was of public interest.

“Public participation and greater transpa-rency are very vital for good governance. It is necessary to engage the people in the decision making process,” he told a press conference in front of the Penang Turf Club yesterday.

[Arkdriver]

i think the tower share many similarities between the firm's other project in hong kong. I saw it here in SSC.

@adverg

yes, there's no railings visible but i think they will put it once the project completed. It's just a rendering mind you

honestly, the project will be completed in 10 years, i mean for the 2 towers. Judging from the current speed of application/land issues processing. The griup have yet to start works on the turf club replacement on the mainland which will take 2 years at least, so dont expect beams to be erected in the first 2 years from now. LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONGGGGG WAY TO GO

[oshkoshbgood]

I you don't mind, I just want to ask something, in fact even me was impressed with the design. On your point of view, since the concept depicts a very futuristic generation of developments, how do this complex will benchmark the totallity of development of Penang 15 years from now. Base on what I see about the Penang development, it is just a typical development of the whole Malaysian style. If this whole thing will complete by that time, was it not obvious that this structure look like it was isolated from the whole Penang development and it seems it came from other world. Does it compliment to the whole development. Is there any plans to the foreground of this complex that can mach this concept so it wont look like this is an isolated structure. Secondly, with respect to the designer, base only on the drawing, it seems there is no security barriers in between levels of this outdoor grounds. You can see the height and if there is no glass railings around this, this is dangerous to someone to walk beside it most especially kids. This is just my observation, hope it won't offend it. Can I have any response on my message.

first thing is...look at the KLCC as a model. once before the project completed, you can look at the building around KL especially those in Jalan Tun Ismail, Pudu and Jalan Raja Laut. they are so typical bland concrete towers. but then in 1997 when the Petronas Twin Towers was born, all new around KLCC developments try to 'compliment' its design with the PTT. this is bcoz the KLCC is a very heavy project and it has a very big impact in its surrounding until every architect try to bring the best design to compete with PTT. so, it is not an 'out of the world' or 'isolated', but a 'new world' with its own identity.

and since the PGCC is similar with the KLCC, so it has the same influence...

talking about the 'safety' of the project, i think you just being pessimistic and have no idea on what 'project rendering is all about'....

[GOMUS]

a very futuristic design...congrats penang...

but wish it can build faster...

[haze]

http://www.pgcc.com.my/index.jpg

http://www.pgcc.com.my/image_04.jpg

[haze]

PGCC Central Park

http://www.pgcc.com.my/centralpark_01.jpg

Within this privately maintained PGCC park, there will be a host of recreational facilities as well as well-maintained children playground, fitness stations, big multi-purpose outdoor court, jogging path and children wading pool, all of these available for the public’s enjoyment at Zero Cost. And when it is time to lay back and relax, the park has refreshing water features as such as the beautiful reflecting pools, fountains and ponds, garden pavilions, amphitheatre and F&B outlets.

The ponds in PGCC Central Park will utilized recycle storm water treated with Bio Filtration System coupled with Hydro-Cyclone CDS Gross Pollutant Traps for pollution control.

With these environmental friendly technologies, the carbon footprint of our development will be minimized, all of which will contribute with our quest to build one of the first Zero-Carbon development in this region.

[haze]

http://www.pgcc.com.my/okarbon_01.jpg

http://www.pgcc.com.my/okarbon_01a.jpg

http://www.pgcc.com.my/okarbon_02.jpg

http://www.pgcc.com.my/okarbon_03.jpg

http://www.pgcc.com.my/okarbon_04.jpg

[haze]

http://www.pgcc.com.my/masterpiece_01.jpg

http://www.pgcc.com.my/image_02.jpg



Penang Global City Centre


Architects:
Asymptote Architecture,
New York

Principals:
Hani Rashid +
Lise Anne Couture

MEP & Structural Engineer:
ARUP, New YorkDavid Scott,
Partner in Charge

Facade Design Consultants:
Front Inc, New YorkMark Simmons, Partner in Charge




Penang Global City Centre in Penang, Malaysia as designed by the award-winning, New York - based firm Asymptote under the leadership of architect Hani Rashid, will be the 21st-century symbol for Penang on both local and global scale through the simultaneous embrace of natural landscape, contemporary urbanism and innovative, energy-efficient design. This project is an opportunity to create a new image for the city of Penang by creating a precinct that is complementary to the existing character of the city and takes advantage of the lushness of the surrounding mountainous landscape by pulling it into the urban fold. The inter-twining of the two creates a new model for rich and dynamic urban landscape.

Penang Global City Centre is nestled at the base of the nature reserve of Penang Hill and overlooks to the sea beyond. The city’s two towers are to be landmarks of outstanding architectural quality that stand out on site as emblems of the new development.
Other design hallmarks of the development are an observation tower and the site-specific, original sculpture designed by internationally renowned artist Frank Stella.


Every aspect of the design for Penang Global City Centre incorporates the latest in cutting-edge, sustainable design and engineering innovations including building-integrated wind turbines; a high-performance facade with integrated, thin-film photovoltaics; high-efficiency central mechanical systems utilizing trigeneration; comprehensive storm water management and water recycling. The incorporation of these elements into the design represents the highest commitment to the creation of energy-efficient and environmentally conscious architecture. The projected result is a development that will have net-zero carbon emissions, and unprecedented aspiration for a project of such monumental proportions and programmatic diversity.

The programmatic distribution of Penang Global City Centre creates a diverse, yet dense and dynamic, urban environment that is attractive to a variety of users, from local residents and workers to visitors from the region and beyond. The site’s mixed-use program includes a performing arts center, a convention center, a hotel, condominiums, commercial, and office space. The complex will also host a range of recreational activities in a variety of natural settings and provide outdoor public spaces that can accommodate urban functions, such as gatherings, festivals, exhibition and outdoor performances.

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http://anilnetto.files.wordpress.com/2007/09/pgccrealpic.jpg?w=450&h=304
Penang Global City Centre and 30+ skyscrapers surrounding it???

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http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y150/forever_consern/Georgetown-1.jpg

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State Govt Monitoring Public Input And Feedback On PGCC
October 17, 2007 17:04 PM

PENANG, Oct 17 (Bernama) --The state government is monitoring input and feedback from the public on the proposed Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) project at Batu Gantung before making a decision.

"All input including objections, complaints and proposals from the public will be gathered, seriously considered and evaluated," Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon told reporters here Wednesday.

The main public complaints on the PGCC concerned traffic congestion, population density and the environmental aspects.

He said the plan by PGCC developer Abad Naluri, a subsidiary of Equine Capital Berhad was being considered by the Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) and had yet to be approved.

"We don't know whether the PGCC plan proposed by the developer will be accepted in total or approved with modifications. Whatever it is, we will continue to monitor the situation," he said when commenting on public objections and proposals for the project.

Dr Koh believed the developer would continue to hold exhibitions and dialogue sessions to inform the public about the project which would take 20 years to complete.

He urged the public to view the project from the economic angle as it would provide job opportunities, adding that the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) which would pass through the PGCC would help disperse traffic.

"There will always be objections to development projects particularly from those directly affected but it will be accepted once they see the benefit.

"Residents were also against the Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (Komtar) and PORR projects but given time, they will realise that they are needed to generate the economy and disperse traffic."

Dr Koh said the state government was not involved in developing PGCC in terms of land and financing as it was undertaken by the private sector.

On the open tender for the PORR project, he said the Finance Ministry was expected to make a decision next year adding the federal and state governments only provided input on the road alignment.

"The PORR project which has been delayed 10 years will be built using the privatisation method by the federal government and hopefully can be completed in four years," he added.

-- BERNAMA

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More feedback on PGCC
Thursday October 18, 2007
BY KOAY SHIANN HUAH


PENANG plans to hold more exhibi- tions, briefings and dialogues to get feedback from the people on the proposed RM25mil Penang Global City Centre (PGCC).

Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said the state government wanted more feedback from the public before implementing the mega project.

Exhibitions, briefings and dialogues would help gather the required feedback, he said.

Rejecting suggestions by various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) for more public hearing on PGCC, Dr Koh said public hearing sessions involved legal process and were not something that could be held many times.

“But the government still wants feedback from the public via seminars, exhibitions and dialogues,” he told reporters after meeting members of Penang Basketball Association in his office yesterday.

He was commenting on whether the state government would agree to hold more public hearing sessions as suggested by the NGOs recently.

PGCC will be developed on a 105.2ha site where the Penang Turf Club is currently located.

It will have among others, shopping complexes, two five-star hotels, commercial and residential properties, a state-of-the-art cultural centre and a 10.5ha park.

Dr Koh said it was important for the authorities to get public views as it would help sort out teething problems before implementing the project.

“We are very careful when it comes to approving a mega project like this.

“ Although the state government welcomes development projects, it would also consider the possible impact on the state and people,” he said.

The relevant authorities would decide if there was a need to modify or make alterations to the proposal after getting the feedback, he said.

On Sunday, State Local Government committee chairman Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan said there would not be any public hearing on the proposed project.

On the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR), Dr Koh said the traffic flow in Penang would improve once PORR was built.

The PORR was expected to be completed in four years, he said, adding that he did not have the details as the Economic Planning Unit was in charge of the project.

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Northern Corridor Economic Region: Great projects, but they need to be fine-tuned further
By : W.C.M., Rawang


AS an ex-Penangite, I am delighted and impressed with the proposed infrastructural projects for Penang under the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) master plan, particularly the Second Penang Bridge, the Penang Global City Centre and Penang Sentral.

These projects, together with the others, will transform Penang into a modern, vibrant metropolis.

However, the Penang monorail may fail to solve the island’s transportation woes due to its limited capacity and slow speed, as demonstrated by Kuala Lumpur’s monorail. A more credible alternative would be the LRT system, or better still, an MRT (mass rapid transit) system like Singapore’s.

There is no doubt that all these projects will be implemented successfully in view of the private sector’s participation and the government’s political will. That will be the easy part.

The tough part will be how to maintain these facilities effectively and efficiently, given the "Third World mentality" of Malaysians that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has warned against so often.
A classic example is the Komtar complex, which used to be the icon of Penang’s urban renewal strategy but has since become an embarrassment to both the state government and Penangites.

Hence, it is imperative that Penang takes a quantum leap in improving its maintenance culture and management so that these projects will truly be Penang’s pride in the years ahead.

The proposed RM2 billion Penang Sentral project in Butterworth will play a vital role as the integrated transportation and logistics hub of the NCER.

Thousands of people are expected to pass through this gateway to the island daily and thousands more will patronise its shopping mall, hotels and other facilities. In short, this project will transform the face of Butterworth.

This project is a unique and bold attempt at town planning. I have yet to come across such a massive project to be built right next to two large petroleum depots.

The big question is: "How safe will Penang Sentral be?"

True, there has never been any major accident at these installations. However, we can never rule out the possibility of such a scenario. In such an eventuality, Penang Sentral, too, may be affected.

Given this potential scenario, I strongly urge the government and the two foreign oil companies concerned to relocate the depots.

This vacant site could then be jointly developed into a modern, vibrant commercial hub, which Butterworth sorely needs. It will also complement Penang Sentral’s role as the infrastructural icon on the mainland of Penang and the gateway to the NCER.

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Five eco-projects under PGCC fund
Sunday October 28, 2007


PENANG: Five eco-projects will be implemented in Penang's five districts under a special RM100,000 fund allocated by the developer of the RM25bil Penang Global City Centre (PGCC).

Equine Capital executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim said individuals and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) were welcome to submit eco-projects for their respective districts to their panel of environment experts.

“The panel will then choose a suitable eco-project for implementation. We will implement the eco-project, which could cost up to RM20,000, depending on the size,” he said after the launch of the PGCC exhibition by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Effendi Norwawi at Queensbay Mall.

Equine Capital holds 25% stake in Abad Naluri, which is the developer of PGCC.

Lim said Abad Naluri was planning an international green technology symposium in December.

He added that Abad Naluri would continue to provide information to the public via the month-long exhibition, seminars, and competitions on PGCC, a project slated under the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) development programme.

“The public can access the PGCC website www.pgcc.com.my to provide feedback on the project,” he said.

Lim said the government’s endorsement of the PGCC was a clear signal of the strong support.

“We are required to show even more commitment and responsibility, as the project is now under the scrutiny of three levels of the government – the local authorities, the state and the federal government,” he said.

On Abad Naluri’s obligation to build affordable housing for the PGCC project, Lim said the plan to build 1,334 units of low-medium cost housing on a 5.2ha site in Jalan Padang Tembak was awaiting feedback from the local authorities.

“Besides developing low-medium cost housing, we also plan to refurbish the existing flats in Jalan Padang Tembak,” he said.

Located on the 104-ha Penang Turf Club site, the PGCC project is planned to accommodate international hotels, a state-of-the-art Penang performing arts centre, and a mini-philharmonic centre.

The PGCC is expected to create about 30,000 jobs, of which 5,000 jobs will be generated during the construction phase.

The development will be carried out over an 18-year period. The ground-breaking ceremony for the project will be held next year.

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Youth associations backing project
Sunday October 28, 2007


PENANG: Several associations have expressed support for the RM25bil Penang Global City Centre project, saying it would bring positive benefits not only to Penang but also the country.

Malaysian National Youth Association (MNYA) vice-president Chris Wong said the project, which was applying for MSC-status, would create high-and-medium skilled jobs for youths in the country.

“It is expected to attract world-class information technology companies that would require the services of skilled manpower, which the youth in the country can provide,” he said after the launch of the PGCC exhibition.

He added that there were 10,000 members in the MNYA, who would support the PGCC project.

Malaysian Indian Youth Council (MIYC, Penang Chapter) chairman Dr Allappah Raja said the PGCC project would place Penang on the world map. Raja turned up with 35 MIYC members to support the project.

Ang Swee Loon, 20, said he came to the exhibition to find out more about the PGCC project.

“The PGCC looks like the kind of project that Penang needs to propel it into the 21st century,” he added.

Ang also entered the PGCC slogan contest, which offers a RM29,888 Segway personal transporter as the grand prize.

Joseph Lee said he was impressed with the PGCC project, as it was designed to be one of the world’s first carbon zero cities.

Segway Malaysia Sdn Bhd director Kenneth Fung said about 1,000 entries had been submitted for the contest.

Segway Malaysia, the distributor of Segway personal transporter in the country, is the sponsor of the grand prize.

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State to soar higher with projects
Sunday November 18, 2007
TheStar


PENANG: The proposed Penang Global City Centre and Seri Tanjung Pinang projects will enhance Penang's city status, according to an economic analyst.

UOB KayHian analyst Yee Nei Hui said Penang had the potential to soar to greater heights with such high-impact projects.

“With high-impact projects and vast potential under the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) project, the state is poised to move to another level,” Yee said when presenting a paper on Penang high on the foreign fund managers' radar during the “NCER: Unleashing Penang's Potentials” seminar at the E & O Hotel here yesterday.

Yee said the seafront Seri Tanjung Pinang project in Tanjung Tokong that is being developed by E & O Property Development Bhd has proven to be a catalyst for development in the state.

Unlike the southern economic corridor initiative, Iskandar Development Region (IDR), which started from ground zero, NCER has a stronger base, the analyst noted.

The high-impact projects would attract more investors from Kuala Lumpur in view of the strong demand for residential projects in Penang.

“The price of houses will go up further, giving market players more room,” she said.

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PGCC will benefit Penangites
Sunday November 18, 2007
By NIK KHUSAIRI IBRAHIM
TheStar


http://www.thestar.com.my/archives/2007/11/18/nation/n_pg18pgcc.jpg

Sounding board: Participants attending
the PGCC briefing in Penang on Saturday.

PENANG: The RM25bil Penang Global City Centre (http://www.pgcc.com.my/) project is a holistic initiative for sustainable growth that will benefit all Penangites.

The project is not just to spur economic growth, explained Equine Capital Bhd executive chairman Datuk Patrick Lim.

“The role of the developer goes beyond just the construction aspect. We are looking into future growth in all aspects.

“That is why we have engaged the best technical people, local and foreign, to find scientific and methodological solutions.

“We are not only looking at the issues brought up by NGOs, but we are going deeper into many other aspects,” he told The Star on the sidelines of the “NCER: Unleashing Penang's Potentials” at a hotel here yesterday.

Some 300 participants representing various NGOs and interest groups took part.

“We are looking at the broader view, with input from many experts participating in the seminar,” he added.

Among the topics discussed were the economy, research, traffic, public transportation and sustaining mobility. Lim said the seminar was not organised to gain popularity.

“We are here for an open discussion and accountability. There will be more such seminars and public forums in the future,” he said.

The ecological impact of the project would be discussed in subsequent seminars, he added.

“We are committed to Penang. We are prepared to share with everyone. This is our corporate social responsibility,” he said.

The PGCC project that would take up 105.2ha of the current Penang Turf Club, will include the construction of international hotels and a mini-philharmonic centre.

It is expected to create about 30,000 jobs, of which 5,000 would be generated during the construction phase. The entire project is expected to take 18 years.

The project is undertaken by Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, an associate company of Equine Capital Bhd.

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State short of schemes for REIT companies
Tuesday November 20, 2007
TheStar

PENANG: Penang is short of high-value property schemes for real estate investment trust (REIT) companies to invest in.

Of the 87 properties held by the 13 REIT companies in the country, only two were in Penang, Regroup Associates Sdn Bhd executive chairman Chris Boyd told StarBiz at the sidelines of the NCER: Seizing The Opportunities symposium.

“The Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) project, which has an estimated gross sales value of RM25bil, therefore, provides new investment opportunities for REIT companies to come to Penang,” he said.

He said presently the bulk of Penang’s financial and commercial properties were still located in the heritage districts of George Town.

These areas were very congested, making access inconvenient, he said.

“PGCC provides a suitable site for future and existing commercial and financial properties buildings to be developed and relocated.

“The heritage districts can then be used for the development of heritage and tourism projects. There are many cities in China that have followed this pattern of development,” he said.

On the impact of PGCC on property prices of Penang, Boyd said over the next five years the property prices in the prime locations of the island would eventually hit RM500 per sq ft from the current RM250 per sq ft.“

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Asymptote Architecture announces the design of Penang Global City Center

Asymptote’s design for the PGCC complex is centered on the idea of creating a new and powerful image for the city of Penang and the new initatives associated with the development of the Northern Corridor of Malaysia. The design achieves its elegance and stature through the simultaneous embrace of natural landscapes and contemporary urbanism. The PGCC will become a vital new precinct that complements and enhances the unique characteristics that typify Penang as a remarkable island metropolis. The design of the iconic towers in particular draws inspiration from not only the lushness and drama of the surrounding mountains and seascapes, but also from the rich and diverse cultural heritage that makes up the Malaysian nation and Penang in particular. The forms of the two towers are comprised of both horizontal and vertical elements: sculpted horizontal components move across the plinth, rise up and transform into articulated vertical structures. Set against the backdrop of the nature reserve of Penang Hill, the twisting, glass façades of the towers “perform” various surface effects—reflecting, refracting and distorting views of Penang, the surrounding landscape and the seascape beyond. The vast, cascading plinth, which functions as a public plaza with multiple gathering spaces, are venues for the performing arts center, convention center and various facilities for residential, office and urban life.

Source : worldarchitecturenews (http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=1422)

Asymptote to Spice Up Penang's Skyline
November 27, 2007
By Rebecca Ward (http://archrecord.construction.com/news/daily/archives/071127penang.asp)


During the 18th century, spice attracted both traders and pirates to Penang, an island harbor for ships on the Strait of Malacca in Malaysia. Now, government officials are hoping that 21st-century vanguard architecture and luxurious beachfront resorts will once again draw international visitors to the island—this time, investors and tourists. To aid in the effort, municipal authorities have tapped Asymptote Architecture to design a $7 billion, 256-acre mixed-use complex called Penang Global City Center (PGCC).

Lise Anne Couture and Hani Rashid, principals of the New York–based architecture firm, unveiled their design for the nearly 11-million-square-foot PGCC development in September. Their project takes the form of two sinuous, 60-story steel-and-glass-clad towers that reach skyward from a stagelike plinth. The towers will house luxury residential units and five-star hotels; the plinth will function as a public plaza and contain retail, a performing arts center, and a convention center.

“(Our project) is a harmonic assemblage of distinct historic and cultural references set against contemporary dynamics of fluidity, transformation, and flux,” Rashid says. Asymptote drew on Penang’s heritage of Chinese, Indian, and Arabian influences to create fenestration patterns inspired by arabesque motifs. “The towers allude to Asian mythical symbols and Islamic minarets,” he adds.

But the PGCC will also have a high-tech, sustainable sensibility: The project aims to be carbon-neutral. A central mechanical system will utilize trigeneration, including wind turbines and a thin-film photovoltaic facade.

Penang’s government expects to begin construction in 2008 and finish by 2012, but it is facing criticism about the site’s master plan, overseen by the Parisian firm Atelier Seraji. Opponents say that the PGCC fails to provide enough affordable housing and that it will create traffic congestion.

The sinuous towers of Penang Global City Center, designed by Asymptote, will rise from a stage-like plinth.

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