Jagdeep: 87pct in favour of Dewan Sri Pinang as arts and cultural centre
Preliminary survey on the future of the iconic Dewan Sri Pinang shows that 87 percent of over 100 respondents agree it should be the main arts and cultural centre of Penang, said state exco on housing and local government Jagdeep Singh Deo.
"Seventy-eight (78 percent) agree it should be upgraded, and 61 percent agree on a new face-lift and a further extension of the building," he said in a press conference held at the building today...
Preliminary survey on the future of the iconic Dewan Sri Pinang shows that 87 percent of over 100 respondents agree it should be the main arts and cultural centre of Penang, said state exco on housing and local government Jagdeep Singh Deo.
"Seventy-eight (78 percent) agree it should be upgraded, and 61 percent agree on a new face-lift and a further extension of the building," he said in a press conference held at the building today.
Jagdeep added that the survey will continue at two venues, namely Dewan Sri Pinang and the third floor of Komtar, for another month.
"The state will receive input from the public as we are certainly open to views of all stakeholders. We want this project to kick off as we want to enhance this building to make it a greater icon for Penang," he said.
Asked what was his personal view of the building, Jagdeep said he would like it to be enhanced to a greater icon than it is today.
"As the biggest auditorium in Penang, it can go to greater heights like the Royal Albert Hall or the (Sydney) Opera House. An extension at the back could cater for the new state assembly building. It would be amazing for Penangites and our visitors," he added.
Last week, the Penang Legislative Assembly was held at the Dewan Sri Pinang, as the current building on Light Street was undergoing renovation.
For half a century since its existence, the Dewan has been used for official ceremonies, cultural events and dinner parties.
In 2014, the late Karpal Singh's state honoured ceremony was held at the building as thousands came to pay him their last respect.
It will soon be upgraded by the George Town Conservation and Development Corporation Sdn Bhd (GTCDC) next year.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow had given three options for the upgrading of the auditorium.
“The first option is to make minimal facelift, including enlarging the art gallery and library as well as make the auditorium space more flexible and equipped with a theatre stage overlooking the sea,” he said.
The second choice, he added, was to make improvements to the ground and first floors so that the hall space would be bigger, the auditorium space more flexible with an experimental theatre, a digital library, a food court and a foyer connecting the building to the City Hall next door.
“The third choice is to widen Dewan Sri Pinang’s area by incorporating the second option, including the building overlooking the sea, apart from enlarging the performance arts and office spaces on the third level,” Chow was quoted as saying by Bernama.
