Cheok said that once the food court renovations are completed under the sixth phase of the Penang Hill Astaka upgrading project, new regulations and policies will be implemented regarding the commercial activities allowed on the hill popular with tourists.

However, he said, it would be difficult for PHC to shut down or stop these activities.

“As a government agency, we cannot simply shut them down as it will affect the people’s livelihood,” he said during the “Memories of Penang Hill” event held at the Bellevue Hotel today.

Cheok was responding to concerns raised about commercial activities that did not align with Penang Hill’s image as an ecotourism destination.

V Rajanandra, who operates The Hickory, a travellers’ lodge refurbished from a heritage colonial bungalow, had raised concerns about the “Earthquake and Typhoon Pavilion”, a 3D simulator situated next to the police station where visitors can experience earthquakes and typhoons for a fee.

He said such attractions were unsuitable for Penang Hill.

Among popular attractions on Penang Hill are the Love Lock Bridge and the Little Village, both near the Penang Hill Food Centre.

The Penang Hill Festival, now in its 5th edition, runs from July 19 to 21.

Today marks its second day, featuring activities such as talks, nature walks, exhibitions and more.