GEORGE TOWN — The Penang state government is considering the possibility of constructing a bridge instead of the long-mooted undersea tunnel for the proposed third link across the Penang Straits, the state assembly was told today.
State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari (Tanjong Bunga–PH) said a feasibility study completed in 2023 had explored the viability of a new design for the third link, including the option of a bridge.
“A feasibility study for this alternative design is expected to be completed soon, and a final decision on the design will be made once that study concludes,” Zairil said while winding up the debate on the motion of thanks to the governor.
“Traffic impact assessment (TIA) as well as other necessary assessments will be carried out after that (study).”
Earlier, in a written reply to Lee Khai Loon (Machang Bubok–PH), Zairil said the undersea tunnel project remains relevant and is expected to benefit both the public and Penang’s long-term development.
He said the tunnel could help alleviate congestion on roads leading to the first Penang Bridge by diverting traffic to a new route connecting the island to the mainland.
Zairil also said the new design for the third link takes into consideration several key factors, including efficiency, feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and its social and environmental impact.
On February 26, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the tunnel’s feasibility study was still under review, according to Bernama.
The state government is also taking into account related developments, such as the proposed expansion of the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT), which may affect the tunnel’s alignment.
The proposed 6.5-kilometre undersea tunnel is intended to connect Gurney Drive on the island with Bagan Ajam on the mainland, as part of the wider Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP). — May 21, 2025