Kuala lumpur: Maintenance of the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah Bridge, better known as the Penang Second Bridge, is not only crucial for its durability but also involves significant challenges and high risks. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi emphasized the importance of meticulous and continuous maintenance for the 24-kilometre bridge, designed to last up to 120 years.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nanta highlighted the unseen efforts of engineers and divers who tirelessly work to ensure the bridge's safety. Protective coating on the steel fenders is among the critical maintenance tasks, serving as shields to protect bridge piers from ship collisions and absorb impact energy. This ongoing work includes replacing corroded steel plates, mechanically removing rust, and reapplying special protective coatings.

The bridge is equipped with gondolas for safe inspection of the spans' undersides, while Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and expert divers conduct underwater inspections. These efforts, although largely unnoticed by the public, are vital for ensuring the safety of both land and maritime traffic in the area.

The Penang Second Bridge, once recognized as the longest in ASEAN, continues to be one of Malaysia's most iconic infrastructure projects.