Taman Kejiranan Jalan Cheeseman in Jelutong has become the first park in Penang to be completed under the Taman Rekreasi Madani initiative, bringing upgraded recreational facilities and improved accessibility to the local community.
State Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye said RM3 million has been allocated for six Taman Madani projects across Penang, with three under the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and another three under the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP).
The Jalan Cheeseman park upgrade received RM412,580 and covered approximately 3,200 square metres. Work began on April 16, 2026, and was completed on October 15, 2026.
The improvements include children’s playground equipment, six outdoor exercise stations, upgraded pedestrian walkways, 10 park benches, two solar-powered lights, mobile CCTV surveillance and six bollards to control vehicle access.
Universal design features, including ramps and seating for persons with disabilities (OKU), were also incorporated to make the park more accessible to people of different ages and abilities, including senior citizens.
One of the notable features retained in the upgrade is the park’s traditional merry-go-round, which is estimated to be more than 50 years old. The equipment dates back to the park’s establishment in 1968 and was preserved following requests from local residents, with improvements made to its safety and appearance.
H’ng congratulated MBPP and the local community for their cooperation in completing the project, highlighting the initiative’s aim of providing safer, more comfortable and inclusive public recreational spaces.
The completion of the Jalan Cheeseman park marks the first milestone in Penang’s wider effort to improve neighbourhood parks and create better recreational spaces for residents.
Images Source: Buletin Mutiara
