GEORGE TOWN: Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow is leading an official delegation to Switzerland and Austria from Tuesday to Monday (June 10 to 16) as part of efforts to advance the Penang Hill cable car project.
"It is a working visit hosted by Doppelmayr and Hartasuma... (towards) the implementation of one of Penang's key sustainable mobility initiatives," the Chief Minister's Office said in a statement on Tuesday.
"The delegation will visit key suppliers and industry leaders involved in the project, including the Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH headquarters and manufacturing facility in Wolfurt, Austria.
Its stops in Switzerland include the cable car ropeway supplier in Romanshorn, the funicular system supplier in Goldau, and the gondola cabin supplier CWA Constructions SA in Olten.
"These technical visits are crucial for understanding the advanced engineering, operational procedures and stringent safety standards that underpin world-class cable car systems.
"The aim is to ensure that Penang Hill's cable car infrastructure is delivered to the highest international benchmarks," the statement read.
Chow and his team will also engage with the mayor of Bettmeralp in Switzerland's Raron district and local cable car company Aletsch Bahnen AG to explore best practices in mountain tourism and sustainable transport systems.
"These engagements will provide valuable input for enhancing Penang Hill's long-term development as a sustainable and accessible destination," it added.