PENANG, 11 FEBRUARY 2025 – In conjunction with this year’s Thaipusam celebrations, the Concessionaire for the Penang Hill Cable Car Development, Hartasuma Sdn Bhd (“Hartasuma”) has announced a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to develop a motorised lift or people mover system that will provide full step-free accessibility to the Waterfall Hilltop Temple in Pulau Tikus.
With a history dating back to the 18th century, the Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Devasthanam Temple, commonly known as the Waterfall Hilltop Temple, sits at an altitude of over 100 meters, and is one of largest temples in Malaysia devoted to Lord Murugan. Revered as a key cultural and religious site in Penang, the temple is slated to receive around 1.5 million visitors during the Thaipusam festivities this year.
Reaching the temple summit has required visitors to ascend a set of staircases, equivalent to a 20-storey climb. The challenging ascent has long been an impediment to accessibility, particularly for elderly worshipers, tourists, and visitors with mobility impairments. taken during construction. Improving accessibility to key cultural and religious sites is not only a step toward preserving the rich heritage of Penang,but it is also essential in creating an inclusive environment where people of all backgrounds and interests can connect with the state’s diverse cultural tapestry,” said YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang acknowledging the long term benefits of improving accessibility to the Temple.
We look forward to supporting the continued development of projects that enhance accessibility, fostering a stronger and more unified Penang for all,” Chow added, in praise of the company’s efforts.
To begin, Hartasuma will undertake a comprehensive feasibility study to determine the most appropriate technical solution for deployment.
We are firmly committed to achieving positive social impact through the development of sustainable infrastructure. The Hilltop Temple Mobility Initiative is not just about transportation—it is about inclusivity, preserving heritage, and ensuring that every visitor, regardless of age or ability, can access this fabled site with ease.” said Tan Sri Ravindran Menon, Executive Director of Hartasuma.
We are proud to be contributing dynamically to Penang’s development and look forward to working closely with the State Government to bring this vision to life,” he added.
A pioneer in the Malaysian rail industry, Hartasuma brings to the project an extensive track record in rail engineering, infrastructure development, and sustainable transport solutions. The company is at the forefront of Malaysia’s public transport projects, playing a key role in national infrastructure developments such as the Kelana Jaya Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) Project.
In Penang, Hartasuma is leading the way in enhancing connectivity through the highly anticipated Penang Hill Cable Car Project, which is set to create another iconic tourist attraction and spur the growth of the state’s eco-tourism industry.
