Penang govt proposes converting 70% of federal roads to state roads

PETALING JAYA (May 6): In order to maintain the roads better, the Penang state government is applying to convert federal roads into state roads.

The Star reports that Penang Works, Utilities and Flood Mitigation Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said there were concerns about the state of the roads in Penang which required better maintenance for the comfort and safety of users.

“The proposal to convert federal roads in Penang to state roads targets almost 70% of the total federal roads across the state, requiring 190.25km to be re-gazetted,” he was quoted as saying.

The process would take a considerable amount of time, Zairil said. The procedure began with the application of the state Public Works Department to the Road Facilities Maintenance branch in the Public Works Department.

“Before it is submitted to the Public Works Department, this recommendation should first be approved by the state authorities.

“However, feedback from the Federal Government will need to be further examined, especially if it involves financial implications.”