The long-awaited North Coastal Paired Road (NCPR) is set to bring major relief to Penang’s northern coastline, providing residents, commuters, and tourists with a crucial alternative to the often-congested Jalan Batu Ferringhi.

For years, the single-carriageway route from George Town to Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang has struggled with overwhelming traffic, particularly during peak hours, festive periods, and holiday weekends. Accidents, heavy rain, or fallen debris frequently worsen the situation, leaving vehicles stranded in gridlock for hours and delaying emergency services.

To address these long-standing challenges, the Penang government is pressing forward with the NCPR project, a 10.61km highway that will drastically cut travel times and improve accessibility. According to state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, the NCPR will consist of 8.41km of at-grade road and a 2.2km coastal viaduct.

The new route will stretch from Tanjung Bunga to Teluk Bahang, bypassing key choke points along the current road. It will pass the iconic Masjid Terapung (Floating Mosque), extend over the sea near Shamrock, cut through Batu Ferringhi, and end in Teluk Bahang. Once completed, the highway will slash peak travel times from 30–45 minutes to just seven minutes.

Construction of the RM2.9 billion project, which includes RM500 million for land acquisition, is expected to begin in 2026 following final agreements between the state government and Consortium Zenith Construction (CZC). Detailed design work, along with environmental and land processes, will take up to 1.5 years. Work will first commence on state-owned land.

“This is more than just a road project,” said Zairil. “The NCPR is a vital lifeline that will ease severe congestion, improve emergency response times, and enhance safety along Penang’s northern corridor.”

Beyond resolving traffic woes, the NCPR is also expected to stimulate socio-economic development. By strengthening connectivity, the project could open new opportunities for businesses and tourism in the northern coastal belt, further driving Penang’s economic growth.

“With this investment, we are ensuring Penang remains competitive and resilient,” Zairil added. “The NCPR will benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike, supporting sustainable growth for decades to come.”

Scheduled for completion in 2031, the North Coastal Paired Road promises not only smoother and safer travel but also a stronger foundation for Penang’s long-term development.

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