The entire WCE alignment in Perak is fully operational. — Filepic
Construction of West Ipoh Span Expressway (WISE) is expected to begin after 2026 once the concessionaire fulfils conditions set in the agreement.
Perak infrastructure, energy, water and public transport committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin said the agreement was signed last year.
“The expressway, which will be built under a public-private partnership model, is designed to serve as an alternative route to the congested Menora Tunnel stretch of the North-South Expressway,” he said during the state assembly sitting at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan in Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, Ipoh.
He was replying to a question by Nga Kor Ming (PH-Kepayang) on the progress of WISE and if the project was proceeding as scheduled or facing delays.
Nga also asked about the status of the West Coast Expressway (WCE), including expected completion dates for each section still under construction, and the projected economic impact of both expressways once completed.
Mohammad Nizar said eight of the 11 sections of the WCE had opened, with the entire alignment in Perak fully operational.
The other sections are located in Selangor.
“The construction of WISE and WCE is expected to ease congestion along the North-South Expressway (NSE) and also boost tourism and property values in towns and areas along both highways.
“For WCE, the state government has established the Economic Growth Committee along the alignment.
“There are development proposals that have been and will be implemented, particularly involving the five districts directly impacted by the WCE project, namely Bagan Datuk, Hilir Perak, Perak Tengah, Manjung as well as Larut, Matang and Selama.”
He said the construction of WCE was expected to bring significant and positive socio-economic impact to the areas along its alignment in Perak.
“This project will stimulate various economic activities through improved access, particularly in logistics and delivery services, small enterprises and the marketing of agricultural and fisheries products.
“The enhancement of the economic sector and accessibility through this route is also expected to trigger the growth of new townships,” he added.
In October 2024, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the RM6.2bil WISE project from Gopeng to Kuala Kangsar was expected to reduce traffic congestion along the NSE by up to 40% and take four years to complete.
