Just not bothered over plan

Just not bothered over plan
The Star 9/5/2005

PENANG: Sheer apathy appears to be the major reason why Penangites are not taking the trouble to view and respond to the Penang Structure Plan survey report 2005-2020.

According to Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) president S.M. Mohd Idris, they seemed to have placed their trust in the state government to draw up development plans for Penang. “Many people will not bother to take the initiative to view the report unless a certain project or policy affects them directly,” he said.

Mohd Idris said to get better public participation, the authorities should consider publicising a summary of the report in the mass media. “Elected representatives should also explain the report to their constituents,” he added on Saturday.

The Star reported on Saturday that the survey report had not been pulling in the crowds despite being an important guide for the state’s development in the next 15 years.

Only one feedback form was returned to the state Town and Country Planning Department since the report was put up for exhibition and public comment two weeks ago.

Penang Consumer Protection Association president K. Koris urged professional bodies, residents’ associations, non-governmental organisations and the public to take time off to read the report.

“It is time for the people to speak up and give their views,” he added. Penang’s Northeast district Rukun Tetangga (RT) co-ordinating committee chairman Datuk Dr Ong Hean Tee said individuals and organisations should read sections of the report that were relevant to them and give their views.

However, Real Estate and Housing Developers Association Penang chairman Datuk Eddy Choong said it was difficult for the public to comment on the report as it lacked details.

“Most projects mentioned do not seem to have been properly researched, and feasibility studies have yet to be carried out,” he noted.