Butterworth-Kulim Railway among 14 high-impact projects in Penang State Structure Plan 2040 draft

GEORGE TOWN (Aug 18): The Butterworth-Kulim railway line, Penang Coastal Ring Road and The Penang Gateway are among 14 high-impact projects identified in the draft Penang State Structure Plan 2040 (RSNPP 2040) Review to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth.

According to the draft issued by the Penang State Town and Country Planning Department (PLANMalaysia Penang), the Butterworth-Kulim railway line is proposed to connect major transport hubs in Seberang Perai with the industrial centre in Kulim, Kedah.

“It has the potential to boost economic growth and employment opportunities in the northern corridor, alleviate traffic congestion and shorten travel times across Seberang Perai,” according to the draft, which contains seven main sections.

The draft also proposes the Penang Coastal Ring Road in the northwest, connecting the area to economic centres in the south.

The coastal route, about 28km to 30km long, is expected to reduce travel time to about 21 to 27 minutes and has the potential to ease congestion in George Town by bypassing the city centre.

The Penang Gateway, a mixed development involving land reclamation along the coastal area from Tanjong Bungah to Batu Feringghi, is also identified as having the potential to spur economic development, particularly in the tourism, services, trade and property sectors in northern Penang.

The proposal could also enhance the coastal area's appeal as an international-class investment and tourism destination, contributing to employment opportunities and new economic activities in the state.

The draft also proposes maintaining the Middle Bank Marine Sanctuary, located between Penang Island and the mainland and covering about 10 sq km, as a marine protected area.

“This area is of high ecological importance as the only seagrass meadow in the Strait of Malacca, functioning as a highly effective natural carbon sink,” it stated.

Other catalytic projects identified include the Third Penang Crossing, proposed Balik Pulau-Paya Terubong Tunnel, expansion of Penang Sentral, a proposed ship lay-up centre, Pulau Burong Waste-to-Energy Plant and construction of a Biodiesel Blending Depot.

According to the RSNPP 2040, implementing these catalytic projects is expected to improve accessibility and connectivity, strengthen public transport and logistics systems, preserve strategic natural resources and create a more balanced development network between the island and Seberang Perai.

The RSNPP 2040 (Review) Draft, a state strategic planning document outlining the comprehensive direction of physical, economic, social and environmental development up to 2040, is currently open for public inspection and participation until Sept 9.

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