THE Federal Government has allocated RM35 million for the development of Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3 (BKIP3), Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced during the Penang Legislative Assembly session today.
Chow (PH-Padang Kota) stated that the allocation is intended for infrastructure projects under Phase 1A of BKIP3.
On Feb 16 this year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiated the groundbreaking ceremony of BKIP3, the 10th industrial park being developed by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC).
Spanning a total area of 407 acres, BKIP3 is set to be completed by August 2031 in four phases. Phase 1A, covering 60 acres, is projected to be completed in 2025.
“The RM35 million funding is provided under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12) and is allocated for infrastructure works at the industrial park. These works include road construction, drainage systems, water reticulation, sewerage systems, bridge construction, installation of street lights, and utility services.
“The project has a 16-month implementation timeline,” Chow said in response to a question from Goh Choon Aik (PH-Bukit Tambun).
When asked if the allocation includes upgrades to the SJKC Keng Koon intersection and the northbound toll road, Chow clarified that it does not.
“However, the state Public Works Department (JKR) has submitted a proposal under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13) to upgrade Jalan Bukit Tambun and Jalan Kawasan Perindustrian Bukit Minyak. Additionally, JKR is finalising the cost for upgrading the bridge at Jalan Perusahaan Valdor, which will also be submitted under RMK-13 for approval,” he explained.
Addressing a supplementary question by Goh on whether the state government plans to request a special allocation to address traffic congestion along Bukit Tambun (F149), Chow confirmed that efforts are already underway.
“There are plans for several local projects to complement the Juru-Sungai Dua elevated highway project, though they will require significant funding. The goal is to reduce traffic congestion in the industrial areas of Bukit Tambun and Seberang Perai.
“I have directed state Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari to prioritise this matter and engage with relevant Federal ministries to secure its inclusion as a key project,” Chow added.
Story by Riadz Akmal