In a statement, the department said the developer would still need to fulfil certain requirements following the conditional approval.

Only “green, clean and high-technology industries” will be allowed to operate in the industrial park, and they must obtain the department’s approval beforehand.

“Another criteria is the practice of zero discharge in all industry plots. This is to preserve the water quality in nearby rivers,” it said, adding that these firms must prioritise hiring locals.

It also said the developer must upgrade the roads heading into Bertam to avoid traffic jams in the future, before the Penang Technology Park is fully operational.

Last year, it was reported that 1,662 Bertam residents had objected to the construction of the proposed development and a centralised labour quarters.

They voiced concern over the potential risk to the environment as well as its effect on the social well-being of local communities.