Penang is witnessing a groundbreaking approach to urban renewal as Hunza Properties Bhd launches a RM600 million redevelopment of the aging Mahsuri Flats in Bayan Baru. Unlike traditional projects that displace residents, this initiative ensures all current occupants remain in their homes until new, larger units are ready—a first for Malaysia. The phased construction will transform the 2.6-hectare site into three modern high-rises, blending affordability with strategic land use in one of the state’s most established neighborhoods.
The project’s first phase, already underway, involves a 38-storey tower with 300 spacious replacement units for existing residents, each nearly double the size of their current flats. By prioritizing relocation before demolition, Hunza minimizes disruption while upgrading living standards at no extra cost to occupants. Subsequent phases will add a 46-storey affordable housing block and a 33-storey serviced apartment tower, alongside commercial spaces, maximizing the site’s potential without sacrificing community needs.
State officials highlight the project’s broader significance as a template for sustainable urban revitalization. Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, Penang’s housing committee chairman, emphasizes the triple benefit: improved housing for families, viable returns for developers, and optimized land use for the state. With a gross development value nearing RM600 million, the initiative aligns with Penang’s push to modernize aging housing schemes, though challenges like resident consensus and logistical hurdles remain.
By integrating vertical expansion with resident-centric planning, Hunza’s model could redefine urban redevelopment in land-scarce regions. As Malaysia grapples with balancing growth and livability, this project demonstrates how innovation and empathy can coexist in transforming cities for the better.