The Juru-Sungai Dua Elevated Highway project, a significant infrastructure development aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in Penang, Malaysia, is progressing with various stakeholders involved in its implementation.
The project was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the tabling of Budget 2025. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has confirmed that the project will be implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP), involving PLUS Malaysia Berhad, the Public-Private Partnership Unit (UKAS), and several relevant agencies.
The 15-kilometer elevated highway is designed to reduce congestion at the Juru and Sungai Dua toll plazas along the North-South Highway. Initially estimated to cost RM1.8 billion, the project’s cost has now been revised to RM2 billion.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan stated that PLUS Malaysia has completed the first of three necessary stages for the project’s confirmation. The proposal has been presented to the Public-Private Partnership Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department, and discussions are currently underway. Once confirmed, the next step would involve seeking Cabinet approval.
Chow Kon Yeow emphasized the urgency of the project, highlighting that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim experienced the severity of the congestion firsthand during a trip in February. Chow noted, “I had unintentionally brought Anwar from Permatang Pauh to Batu Kawan to launch an industrial park project during peak hour, and he felt the problem,” which led to the matter being raised again in April and subsequent surveys by the Public Works Department (JKR) and other agencies.
The Juru-Sungai Dua Elevated Highway is a top priority for the state, alongside other infrastructure projects such as the Penang Light Rail Transit (LRT) and the expansion of Penang International Airport. These developments aim to significantly improve traffic flow and connectivity in the region, addressing long-standing transportation issues and supporting economic growth.
Construction work for the project is expected to start in 2025 and is anticipated to be completed by 2029. The elevated, tolled highway will help reduce congestion on the North-South Highway, boosting transport for Penang, cutting journey times, and aiding economic development for the area.
The Juru-Sungai Dua Elevated Highway project is a crucial initiative to enhance the transportation infrastructure in Penang, with ongoing discussions and preparations to ensure its successful implementation through a public-private partnership.
Sources:
- https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/19/juru-sungai-dua-elevated-highway-project-to-be-implemented-via-ppp-says-penang-cm
- https://www.penangpropertytalk.com/2024/06/juru-sungai-dua-elevated-expressway-to-ease-penang-traffic/
