IN A move towards making Penang a more walkable and people-friendly city, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has announced the completion of a 172-metre covered pedestrian walkway along a section of Jalan Utama, from the Jalan Penjara junction to the Jalan Datok Keramat junction.
This was learned to be a part of MBPP’s broader plan to develop a network of sheltered walkways across the city over the next five years.
The initiative, which cost RM271,010.10 and took four months to complete from April 21 to August 20 this year, marks a significant step in enhancing pedestrian comfort and connectivity, in line with the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP).
State Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye, who announced the project, said the state government is committed to ensuring that Penang’s urban infrastructure evolves to meet the needs of its people.
“This initiative is part of our long-term plan to provide safe, comfortable, and continuous walking routes that connect key destinations such as hospitals, schools, bus stops, and commercial areas.
“We are now focusing on integrating covered walkways into both new developments and existing pedestrian networks, so that people can move around easily without being affected by rain or heat,” he said during a press conference during the announcement of the completion of the project in Jalan Utama on Nov 10.
H’ng also said the development of covered walkways is a crucial element of Penang’s effort to promote sustainable urban mobility.
“By improving pedestrian infrastructure, we encourage more people to use public transport instead of private vehicles.
“This, in turn, helps reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions, creating a cleaner and more liveable city,” he explained.
The newly completed walkway features a modern aluminium composite panel (ACP) roof that is durable, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain.
It is also equipped with LED lighting for improved visibility and safety at night, which contributes to energy efficiency and user comfort.
Following the success of this pilot project, MBPP plans to expand the construction of covered walkways in other strategic locations throughout the city.
“Our goal is to create a connected pedestrian network that complements Penang’s public transport system, especially as we prepare for the upcoming Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) project.
“With well-designed covered walkways, future LRT users and other public transport commuters can move comfortably and safely between stations and surrounding areas, without exposure to the elements,” H’ng said.
He also revealed that MBPP has begun requiring property developers to include covered pedestrian walkways in all new development proposals, ensuring that public amenities are planned and built in a more structured and inclusive manner.
“This is part of our policy to make Penang an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable city that prioritises people’s comfort, safety, and accessibility.
“We hope more of such initiatives will be extended to other areas that have similar needs so that more Penangites can benefit from them,” he said.
Meanwhile, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the council’s broader goal is to encourage walking as a viable mode of transport by making it safer, more convenient and enjoyable.
“The purpose of this pedestrian network initiative is to encourage walking and promote the use of public transportation.
“We want to make it easier and more pleasant for people to walk to and from bus and LRT stations, schools, and nearby commercial areas,” he said in his speech.
Rajendran also explained that the council has already prepared comprehensive guidelines to ensure that all future development projects integrate pedestrian walkways as a standard feature.
MBPP allocated RM500,000 in 2026 to implement a series of projects connecting existing pedestrian walkways, forming the foundation for a city-wide walking network.
“We are taking a phased approach.
“The pilot project will be expanded to more areas, especially those with high pedestrian activity and key transport links,” he further added.
He also said that MBPP’s new planning focus includes the high and low-density areas, where pedestrian routes will be expanded and upgraded, including improved lighting and roofing in back lanes for greater safety and accessibility.
“Our commitment is to make walking a natural and safe part of urban life in Penang.
“By building covered routes, we make walking not only possible but pleasant, regardless of the weather,” Rajendran said.
Also present at the press conference was Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng, who lauded the initiative as both timely and practical.
“This is a much-needed improvement, especially for those who depend on walking and public transport daily.
“By providing covered walkways, MBPP is showing real concern for pedestrian welfare.
“This initiative may seem small, but its impact on accessibility and safety is significant,” Woo said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan