Penang at risk of losing Unesco heritage status

GEORGE TOWN: Penang is at risk of losing its Unesco World Heritage Site status after a civil society group submitted a letter to the Unesco's World Heritage Centre in Paris, requesting for an advisory mission and impact assessment of the proposed Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) in George Town.
George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee said GTWHI was informed about the matter by the National Heritage Department on July 29.
She said the letter dated June 23 was not copied to the department or GTWHI.
Ang expressed regret that the Penang Forum did not go through the state agency before approaching Unesco.
"I wish to emphasise that GTWHI recognises various parties may have differences but we believe all stakeholders can find common ground in contributing to the betterment of the state," she told a press conference.
Ang said she respected the rights of individuals or associations in submitting their views but alternatives are available in managing differences.
She added that if she had been informed of the matter in June, she would have been able to arrange a meeting with representatives from the World Heritage Centre during the World Heritage sessions in Turkey last July.
" Unfortunately, I was not given such an opportunity by Penang Forum," she said, adding that GTWHI was now working closely with the National Heritage Department on the issue.