The Pan-Island Link 1 (PIL1) is a critical infrastructure project designed to support Penang’s long-term urban planning goals. Designed to tackle traffic congestion and enhance connectivity across the island, PIL1 lays the groundwork for sustainable growth and development.
Strategic Role in Penang’s Transport Ecosystem
Penang’s rapid urban development, particularly southward expansion from George Town, has outpaced the capacity of existing road networks. Jalan Masjid Negeri (Green Lane), originally designed as a Middle Ring Road, is now heavily congested and functions more as a local access road than a traffic dispersal route.
The solution lies in constructing an Outer Ring Road like PIL1, strategically positioned beyond the densely developed areas of George Town to effectively redistribute traffic and alleviate congestion.
PIL1 functions as a strategic bypass and integrates seamlessly with Penang’s broader transport network, including the on-going Ayer Itam – Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Bypass. It will provide an alternative route to overburdened roads especially Lebuhraya Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu and Jalan Masjid Negeri.
With six interchanges connecting Gurney to the island’s southeast, PIL1 ensures efficient traffic dispersion across Penang, reducing pressure on existing roadways while improving mobility for residents and businesses.
Supporting Sustainable Mobility
Penang aspires to achieve a 40% public transport (PT) mode share, and the soon-to-begin Light Rail Transit (LRT) project is a major effort towards achieving this. However, even if this target is attained, it still leaves 60% of the population relying on road transport. This dynamic underscores the importance of developing both rail and road infrastructure, as these modes complement rather than undermine one another, each serving distinct roles and catering to specific market demands. Lest we forget, buses use roads as well.
This model mirrors successful examples in other countries as well. For instance, Singapore boasts an extensive and continually expanding rail network with a commendable mode share of 70%, yet it continues to invest in road infrastructure to address the needs of its population and economy. Such integrated planning ensures a seamless and efficient transport system that accommodates diverse mobility requirements.
Contrary to concerns that PIL1 might cannibalise the ridership of the LRT, these two projects serve distinct alignments and catchments, addressing different transportation needs. PIL1 complements the LRT rather than competing with it, ensuring an integrated transport system that caters to diverse mobility demands.
Environmentally Conscious Engineering
Penang Island, renowned for its rich historical heritage and natural beauty, presents unique challenges for infrastructure development due to its hilly terrain and ecologically sensitive environment.
Constructing road infrastructure in such an environment demands innovative engineering solutions to minimise environmental impact. For the proposed Pan Island Link 1 (PIL1) project, these challenges have been meticulously studied, leading to the adoption of sustainable and environmentally friendly engineering solutions such as tunnels and cable-stayed bridges. Tunnelling technology is a globally established engineering solution that significantly reduces infrastructure footprint on sensitive hill environments.
Comprehensive environmental assessments and mitigation measures will also be implemented throughout the project lifecycle. These efforts align with the state government’s commitment to adhering to stringent environmental and safety standards.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for PIL1, previously approved, has since expired. The state government is committed to updating the EIA with the latest data and resubmitting it for review and approval before any commencement of works. This ensures that the project adheres to the highest environmental standards and incorporates up-to-date mitigation measures.
Boosting Economic Connectivity
PIL1 enhances access to Penang’s key economic and industrial hubs, including Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone (FIZ) and Penang International Airport. The FIZ, a globally recognised hub for technology and high-value manufacturing, plays a pivotal role in Penang’s economy. By improving accessibility, PIL1strengthens Penang’s competitiveness, attracts new investments and supports emerging technology-driven industries.
Preparing for the Future
PIL1 is not just a response to Penang’s current traffic challenges; it is a forward-looking solution designed to prepare the state for future demands. Its integration into Penang’s transport network ensures the state remains liveable, competitive and forward-thinking. The Economy Ministry’s consideration of PIL1 highlights its significance in defining Penang’s path toward a sustainable and prosperous future. By balancing development with conservation, PIL1 will ensure that Penang continues to thrive as a vibrant, resilient and globally competitive state.
Zairil Khir Johari
Penang State EXCO for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital
