Hartasuma Sdn Bhd, the concessionaire for the Penang Hill Cable Car Development, has announced plans to develop a motorised lift or people-mover system at the Waterfall Hilltop Temple, also known as the Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Devasthanam Temple. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility for devotees, elderly visitors, and tourists to the temple, which is one of Malaysia’s largest temples devoted to Lord Murugan and dates back to the 18th century.
The project is part of Hartasuma’s corporate social responsibility efforts and is designed to assist visitors in navigating the challenging ascent to the temple. Currently, visitors must climb a staircase equivalent to a 20-storey climb to reach the temple, posing significant difficulties for elderly worshippers, tourists, and individuals with mobility impairments.
Tan Sri Ravindran Menon, executive director of Hartasuma, emphasized the importance of inclusivity and heritage preservation in the project. “The Hilltop Temple Mobility Initiative is not just about transportation—it is about inclusivity, heritage preservation, and ensuring that every visitor, regardless of age or ability, can access this revered site with ease,” he said.
The project will commence with a comprehensive feasibility study to determine the most suitable technical solution. Hartasuma is committed to creating a positive social impact through sustainable infrastructure development and looks forward to working closely with the state government to bring the project to life.
The estimated cost of the project is between RM4 to 6 million, as stated by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. This investment is expected to significantly improve the accessibility and overall experience for visitors to the temple.
The announcement of the initiative coincided with the Thaipusam celebrations, highlighting the historical and cultural significance of the temple. The project aligns with Hartasuma’s broader commitment to preserving Penang’s ecological environment and enhancing its tourist attractions, as seen in their ongoing Penang Hill Cable Car project in partnership with Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH.
Hartasuma, a leading integrated rolling stock and rail services company, has a strong track record in delivering public transportation solutions in Malaysia. Their collaboration with Doppelmayr, a global market leader in ropeway engineering, underscores their commitment to bringing international standards to local infrastructure projects.
Sources:
