THE people of George Town are in the dark as to what will happen to them if George Town and Malacca succeed in a joint bid to be listed as Unesco heritage sites, said Tanjong MP Chow Kon Yeow.

Chow, who is Penang DAP chairman, said the party was supportive of the application but the Government had yet to carry out a “very basic” socio-economic impact study.

“I am sure the people do not know how the listing will affect them. Property owners are not sure if they will be able to carry out development plans, while residents are not sure if they will be able to afford living in George Town,” he said.

“The state government’s consultant emphasised that George Town stood to gain economically with the listing. This will result in an increase in property value and rental.

“What if residents move out in masses?”

He urged the state government, especially its Tourism Development and Environment Committee chairman Teng Chang Yeow, to conduct a study and involve the participation of the people.

Teng had announced last week that the state was drafting a plan that would show its management strategies for cleanliness, public transport, signage, disabled-friendly facilities and tourism.

Source: The Star Metro North 23 August 2007