Transforming Penang into a World-Class Regional Medical Hub
PENANG, 20 January 2025 – A groundbreaking step towards redefining Penang’s healthcare and urban landscape was taken today as Fajarbaru Builder Group Bhd (“FBG”) signed a Master Purchase and Development Agreement (“Master PDA”) with Penang Development Corporation (“PDC”). The signing at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel launched the transformative Penang Medi-City project in Batu Kawan.
The event was graced by distinguished Guests of Honour, including the Governor of Penang, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak, and Chief Minister of Penang, Tuan Chow Kon Yeow.
The agreement formalises the development of the 235.8-acre Penang Medi-City, envisioned to position Penang as a leading destination for medical tourism while fostering socio-economic growth in the region.
A Vision for Modern Healthcare
Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Chan Kong Choy, Executive Chairman of FBG, explained the significance of the project.
“The Penang Medi-City project represents our shared ambition with PDC to establish Penang as a world-class regional hub for healthcare. By integrating preventive care, diagnostics, treatment, rehabilitation, and wellness, we aim to create a sustainable ecosystem that defines modern healthcare and holistic living,” he said.
The first phase of the project, covering 51.2 acres, will dedicate at least 30% of its land to medical facilities, including a 200-bed hospital, a healthcare complex, and a wellness center. The remaining area will be used for residential, retail, and commercial developments, aimed at building a dynamic and sustainable community.
Boosting the Economy and Creating Jobs
The Penang Medi-City project is expected to bring significant economic benefits, creating thousands of jobs during and after construction. This private investment will bring at least RM2 billion in its first phase and even more in the future.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow shares: “It will also provide many job opportunities in Batu Kawan and the surrounding areas, helping Penang grow as a center for medical tourism.”
The Chief Minister added that the project will not only benefit Penang but also the northern region and potentially serve ASEAN countries.
Collaborating for Success
The project’s success depends on partnerships with key organisations, including Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad (“PHB”), Solarvest Holdings Berhad, KJTS Group Berhad, and CELLAAX Sdn Bhd. These partners will help bring in advanced technologies to support the Penang Medi-City’s growth. This includes renewable energy systems, cooling systems, and stem cell facilities.
“By working with these partners, we can leverage on their strengths to create a sustainable and advanced healthcare ecosystem, staying true to our vision of building for the future.” Dato’ Sri Kuan emphasised.
Looking Ahead
The project aims to achieve groundbreaking for the first hospital by the third quarter of 2026, with completion expected in three to five years.
Dato’ Sri Kuan added: “We plan to have at least four hospitals in the Medi-City, along with facilities like wellness centers, medical and nursing schools, and pharmaceutical hubs. We are also considering including alternative medicine to meet growing demand.”
A Bright Future for Penang
This transformative project promises to strengthen Penang’s global reputation in healthcare and medical tourism.
As Chief Minister Chow concluded, “Rome wasn’t built in a day, and the Medi-City won’t be either. But this marks the start of a new era for Penang’s healthcare and urban landscape.”
