Source: Google Street View

The long-awaited upgrade of Jalan Teluk Kumbar from a two-lane to a four-lane carriageway is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion in Penang’s Southwest District, especially during peak hours.

Penang State Executive Councillor for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital, Zairil Khir Johari, stated that the project has received initial approval from the Public Works Department (JKR) Malaysia and the Road Branch of the Ministry of Works under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13). However, it is still pending final approval from the Ministry of Economy before full implementation can proceed.

Once completed, the project is expected to improve the Level of Service (LOS) from the worst rating of F to an optimal LOS A. It will also enhance road safety with modern design standards and improved intersections. Travel times between Teluk Kumbar, the Penang International Airport, the Bayan Lepas industrial zone, and the Second Penang Bridge are anticipated to be shortened.

The project involves widening a 4.2km stretch of road from a two-lane single carriageway to a four-lane dual carriageway, built to urban U5 standards. It will also include the reconstruction of Sungai Mati Bridge, upgrading of drainage near SMK Teluk Kumbar, and improvements to eight intersections.

Zairil highlighted that the improved connectivity could spur economic growth in Teluk Kumbar and Balik Pulau. Echoing this, Bayan Lepas State Assemblyman Dato’ Azrul Mahathir Aziz welcomed the project, which is targeted to commence in early 2026. He emphasized the urgent need to expand the road from Bukit Belah to Puspakom to better connect with existing highways such as those at Bukit Genting and Pekan Bayan Lepas.

Having consistently raised the issue since 2018, Azrul expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Balik Pulau MP Dato’ Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik for their efforts in escalating the matter to the federal level. He expressed hope for swift approval to ensure the project begins without delay, noting its potential to benefit thousands of road users and stimulate socio-economic development in southern Penang.