GEORGE TOWN, July 20 -- In George Town's historic core, one of Penang's oldest roads is about to get a major facelift, not just for heritage, but for the climate.

Beach Street, once a waterfront artery for commerce and now a bustling financial centre, has been selected as the starting point for Penang's ambitious plan to cool down its inner city and return its streets to people, not just cars.

The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) is launching a RM24.7 million pilot project that will transform a 1.76km loop around Beach Street into a climate-responsive, pedestrian-friendly zone.

MBPP Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the aim is to reclaim public space and combat the heat island effect caused by concrete, tarmac, and the dense rows of old s...