Penang: The frequent occurrence of sinkholes in several cities, including Penang, in recent times has raised public concern, particularly among road users worried about safety risks. The latest incident at Jalan Dato Ismail Hashim in Sungai Ara, Bayan Lepas, should serve as a reminder for all parties to take the management of ageing underground infrastructure more seriously.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, engineering expert Associate Professor Dr. Norhidayah Abdul Hassan recommended that the government establish a structured and risk-based underground utility asset management programme, including comprehensive inspections of old pipes, as a national periodic initiative in major cities such as Penang. Norhidayah, affiliated with the Pavement and Transportation Research Group (PTRG) at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), stated that ageing infrastructure should be assessed using modern techniques such as pressure leak tests and geophysical surveys to detect voids or ground support loss before structural failure occurs.
To prevent recurring sinkhole incidents, Norhidayah emphasized that state governments should prioritise the upgrading of old pipelines in high-risk areas and enhance excavation work specifications. She highlighted the importance of technical coordination among the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), Indah Water Konsortium (IWK), Public Works Department (JKR), and local authorities (PBT) to detect and repair leaks earlier.
Norhidayah commended the initiative by PBAPP and IWK to upgrade the old pipe network, stating it aligns with industry best practices. She noted that replacing outdated pipes with modern systems can reduce leak risks and enhance the integrity of underground utilities against external pressures like traffic loads and soil conditions.
She explained that the main cause of sinkhole formation in urban road areas is leakage from underground utilities, particularly water or sewer pipes, which gradually erode the supporting soil beneath the pavement. Continuous leaks lead to the formation of hidden cavities, eventually causing the pavement to collapse under traffic loads.
Dr. Nor Azmi Bakhary, a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam, suggested establishing a shared Geographic Information System (GIS) database for all underground utilities to improve coordination among agencies. He recommended a phased replacement plan for old pipes and transparent field audits to enhance road user safety and reduce future financial burdens.
The sinkhole on Jalan Dato Ismail Hashim, measuring 5 metres long, 3.5 metres wide, and 1.9 metres in diameter, is believed to have been caused by a leaking pipe. A similar incident occurred on Jalan Burma in George Town last September when a pipe burst, causing severe road surface damage.