Penang is poised to make another leap in infrastructure development with the construction of a new permanent bridge linking the island’s southern coast to the ambitious Silicon Island project. Construction of the four-lane marine viaduct is scheduled to begin this month, with completion expected by December 2028.

Announced by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the 380-metre bridge forms a vital part of the Pan Island Link 2A (PIL2A) project and is aimed at enhancing connectivity and supporting the state’s long-term development agenda. The full stretch, including connecting roads, will span about 1.5km from Persimpangan Permatang Damar Laut to Silicon Island.

Phase One of construction is targeted for mid-2027, enabling access to Silicon Island’s first operational factory. The bridge and its associated infrastructure come with an estimated price tag of RM390 million.

“This bridge will be a key artery linking Silicon Island to the Penang Second Bridge and beyond. It plays a crucial role in our future-facing plans,” Chow said during a site visit to the reclamation area.

Also present were top state officials including Deputy Chief Ministers I and II, key committee chairmen, and senior representatives from the Penang Infrastructure Corporation (PIC) and Penang Island City Council (MBPP).

To complement the infrastructure development, Chow also unveiled plans for a new community hub—Medan Selera Matang—to be built in Permatang Damar Laut. Overlooking the emerging Silicon Island, this 0.8-hectare facility will include a Village Community Management Council (MPKK) hall, a Fishermen’s One-Stop Service Centre, food outlets, and storage sheds for local fishermen.

The Medan Selera Matang project is scheduled to begin construction in the third quarter of this year and be completed by the end of 2027. It will also house a suction tank and pump house to support Silicon Island’s initial water supply needs. The total cost for these community and utility facilities is estimated at RM36 million.

“The design of Medan Selera Matang will reflect the broader aspirations of the Silicon Island development. It is not just about infrastructure, but creating vibrant spaces for communities and opportunities for tourism,” said PIC CEO Datuk Seri Farizan Darus.

Silicon Island, previously known as Island A under the Penang South Island (PSI) reclamation project, covers a total of 2,300 acres. About 160 acres have already been reclaimed. Phase One involves 1,260 acres, while Phase Two will cover the remaining 1,040 acres.

Chow noted that the presence of a temporary bridge next to the site of the future permanent viaduct has been instrumental in accelerating reclamation and infrastructure work.

He also provided updates on the proposed Light Rail Transit (LRT) depot on Silicon Island. Physical work is expected to begin once MRT Corp issues a formal notice to proceed in the coming weeks.

The development of Silicon Island is being spearheaded by Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd (SIDSB), a joint venture between PIC PD Sdn Bhd and SRS PD Sdn Bhd.