GEORGE TOWN: The federal government is reviewing the funding of the proposed Pan Island Link 1 (PIL 1) under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), said Penang Chief Minister.
Chow Kon Yeow said that eight out of 10 projects submitted by the state are currently under consideration by the economy ministry.
PIL 1 has been identified as one of the eight projects being reviewed, according to a report by FMT.
The six-lane PIL 1 is designed to feature 7.6km of elevated roads and 10.1km of roads tunnelling through the Penang Hill range.
The tunnel section is expected to pass beneath key areas such as Penang Hill, Paya Terubong, Sungai Ara, the Penang Hill funicular railway, and City Park.
Originally priced at RM7.5 billion in 2019, the project faced criticism from environmentalists for potentially damaging the island's sensitive ecosystem.
Although it received environmental approval, the project stalled due to funding issues.
Another project under consideration is an underpass connecting Mount Erskine to Jalan Burma.
Chow expressed hope for federal support, noting, "I hope that our federal 'extended family' will prioritise Penang's proposed projects, as they are significant, including road construction, coastal erosion prevention structures, health clinic development, and other essential initiatives."
Other projects under review in the 12MP's final rolling plan include a new Type 2 health clinic in Bayan Lepas, the Sungai Juru conservation project, and beach erosion prevention efforts in Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah.
Yesterday, Chow announced that Penang has achieved several significant milestones in 2024, showcasing strong economic growth and social development, including attracting investments totalling RM31.38 billion.
He said these investments are expected to create over 6,600 job opportunities, particularly in the high-value manufacturing sector, advanced services, and modern agriculture.