THE construction of the Penang Hill cable car project is set to commence next month, or latest by June, as confirmed by Penang Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
Zairil mentioned during a short media briefing, prompted by reporters, that planning permission was secured in January of this year.
“The project received approval alongside both the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the Social Impact Assessment (SIA).
“Therefore, both the state and the Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) anticipate the project to begin soon,” he said after attending the Raya Carnival held at SK Jalan Residensi today.
Expanding on his earlier remarks, Zairil stressed that the 2.7km cable car project connecting the Botanic Gardens to the summit of Penang Hill would significantly boost the tourism sector upon its anticipated completion within three years.
“It will offer an alternative transportation option to the current funicular railway in Air Itam.
“Moreover, Penang Hill’s food and beverage industry, along with other tourism offerings, stand to reap substantial benefits.
“The estimated commuting time to Penang Hill via the cable car is approximately 10 minutes,” he said
In attendance at the event, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow commended the relevant authorities for their approval of the cable car project, as well as for their efforts in advancing various infrastructure initiatives.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the Federal Government, particularly for their invaluable assistance and unwavering commitment to enhancing the public transportation network within the state.
“We eagerly anticipate the completion of the Penang Hill cable car project, which will provide an alternative mode of transportation to the existing funicular railway.
“As such, we remain dedicated to enhancing the state’s infrastructure projects and fostering the development of Penang for the betterment of its people,” he said.
At the Raya Carnival event, Chow praised the power of embracing the diverse multiracial and multicultural fabric of society as a catalyst for fostering unity.
Among those present during the event were Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abd Rashid, PHC general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng, and Ding Qiao, who is the Chinese vice consul-general in Penang.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Alissala Thian