Penang: A 380-metre marine viaduct connecting southern Penang with Silicon Island will be built and is expected to open to the public by December 2028. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the four-lane viaduct is a key component of the Pan Island Link 2A (PIL2A) project, which is a strategic infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening connectivity between Silicon Island and the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah Bridge, also known as the Second Penang Bridge, as well as supporting the state's long-term urban growth.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, construction work on the viaduct is set to begin this month, with the first phase expected to be completed by mid-2027 to support the opening of the first factory operating on Silicon Island in the same year. The total cost of PIL2A phase one is RM390 million, covering the construction of 1.5 kilometres of infrastructure connecting the land area at Permatang Damar Laut to Silicon Island, including the 380-metre permanent marine viaduct.
The components of PIL2A phase one will also link Silicon Island with the Second Bridge at Batu Maung Roundabout and the Penang International Airport (LTAPP) through the construction of an elevated highway to improve connectivity. Chow mentioned that the contractor has completed a 378-metre temporary bridge to provide access for construction and infrastructure works on Silicon Island, which will feature a community hub, including Medan Selera Matang, to be built at Permatang Damar Laut overlooking Silicon Island.
The initiative aims to ensure that those affected by the development, especially food stall traders, can be relocated, reflecting the state government's commitment and concern. The community hub will cover approximately 0.8 hectares and include a new Village Community Management Council (MPKK) hall, Fishermen's One-Stop Service Centre, food stalls, restaurants, and a shed for fishermen.
Chow also announced that, to support the initial water supply needs of Silicon Island, a suction tank and pump house will be constructed on land adjacent to Medan Selera Matang. Construction is set to commence in the third quarter of this year and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Meanwhile, Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd (PICSB) Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus stated that the total construction cost for the community facilities, pump houses, and suction tanks is estimated at RM36 million. He added that the community hub is anticipated to be a vibrant new destination that will benefit residents and potentially attract more tourists, thus supporting tourism and the local economy.
Silicon Island, with a land area of 930.78 hectares, is a reclamation project owned by the Penang government. It marks the first time the state government is directly undertaking a reclamation project to ensure long-term economic growth.