GEORGE TOWN: The Federal Government has assured Penangites that the expansion of the Penang International Airport (PIA) and the Juru-Sungai Dua elevated highway project will be expedited to benefit both residents and visitors.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that these projects are crucial for creating a new landscape for Penang and its surroundings.
"The expansion of PIA is vital to accommodate the needs of both industry players and the tourism sector. Meanwhile, the elevated highway project aims to address severe traffic congestion in the Seberang Jaya area," he said during his officiating speech at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) at Bandar Sri Pinang on Saturday (Jan 11).
Anwar stated that both projects align with the Madani government's aspiration to modernise the state while maintaining its cultural value.
Along with the LRT project, the PIA expansion, Juru-Sungai Dua elevated highway, and Phase Three Batu Kawan Industrial Park were among several initiatives announced by Anwar during Budget 2025 last year.
Anwar expressed his vision for Penang to be known not only for its modernisation but also as a place where people can live affordably.
He urged the state government to focus on eradicating poverty, providing affordable housing, and creating business opportunities for small enterprises, such as stalls and small restaurants, which need upgrades and improvements.
"We do not want Penang to be known solely for landmarks like Komtar, the LRT, the airport, or Penang Hill. Instead, we want Penang to be recognised as the first state to successfully eliminate poverty, ensure housing for the majority of its people, and create opportunities for small businesses," he said.
