Source: Google Street View

The proposed underpass connecting Jalan Mount Erskine and Burma Road is expected to commence construction in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending final approval and funding disbursement from the federal authorities.

The approximately 700-metre-long underpass is designed to improve traffic flow along one of Penang Island’s busiest road corridors. The tunnel entrance will be located near the junction in front of Kwangtung & Tengchow Association Funeral Parlour on Jalan Mount Erskine, while the exit will emerge near Penang Adventist Hospital along Burma Road.

The project, estimated to cost RM330 million, will be jointly funded by the federal government and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), with each party contributing half of the total cost. Land acquisition for the project has reportedly been completed, while preparations for the tender process are awaiting the necessary approvals from the relevant federal agencies.

According to a recent report by Kwong Wah Yit Poh, the construction period is expected to take between four and five years, with completion targeted for the first quarter of 2030.

One of the key features of the project is the construction method, which is expected to allow traffic on the existing road surface to continue operating during much of the tunnelling works. While temporary traffic management measures and lane adjustments may be required during the early stages of construction, the underground excavation itself is not expected to require the full closure of the affected roads.

The project’s main engineering challenges are expected to involve the relocation of existing underground utilities, including water pipes, power cables and telecommunications infrastructure. This phase alone may take up to 18 months to complete. Another major component involves the construction of an effective drainage system to prevent water accumulation within the underpass.

Once completed, the underpass is expected to provide an alternative route for motorists travelling between Mount Erskine and Burma Road areas, helping to improve traffic distribution along a corridor that regularly experiences heavy congestion during peak hours.

Taman Himalaya, a new phase of landed residential development by Pemaju Kelang Lama Sdn. Bhd. located in Permatang Pauh. Situated near Jalan Sama Gagah, the neighbourhood enjoys convenient access to several major road networks, including the Butterworth–Kulim Expressway and the North–South Expressway interchange. The area is also within a short driving distance of Seberang Jaya, Sunway Carnival Mall, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and other established residential townships in Seberang Perai.

The latest development at Taman Himalaya comprises 78 units of 3-storey terraced homes, which will be developed in two phases. Each unit offers 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. Indicative prices start from RM788,000.

Project Name: Taman Himalaya
Location: Permatang Pauh
Property Type: Residential
Total Units: 78
Built-up Size: 20′ x 40′
Land Area: (to be confirmed)
Indicative Price: RM788,000 onwards
Developer: Pemaju Kelang Lama Sdn. Bhd.

DISCLAIMER: This article is solely based on research done using publicly available data. This is not an advertisement. Any claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a project or service should be verified with the developer, provider, or party in question.

About Laguna Bay Residences

An affordable housing project by Kobay Properties Teluk Kumbar, strategically located within walking distance of Lexis Suites and a short drive from Penang International Airport. Spanning approximately 1 acre, the development features a 31-story residential tower with a 9-level car parking podium. Offering 900 sq. ft. units with majority of homes boast stunning views of the Malacca Straits.

Find out more about Laguna Bay Residences

Melaka Straits Medical Centre Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Oriental Holdings Berhad, formalised a joint venture with Ideal Hasrat Bumiraya Sdn Bhd, part of Ideal Property Group on 28 May 2026, for the proposed development of a tertiary medical centre, named Ideal Oriental Medical Centre, to be undertaken by Star Hill City (M) Sdn Bhd.

The collaboration signals a bold step towards redefining healthcare delivery in Northern Malaysia through a future-ready medical ecosystem that integrates advanced tertiary care, innovative technology, and seamless urban connectivity.

Planned on a 1.9-acre site within the fast-growing Queens Waterfront masterplan, the proposed multidisciplinary medical centre – is the second hospital by Oriental Holdings Berhad – is envisioned to serve both local and international patients, with a strong focus on high-demand subspecialty and tertiary healthcare services. The proposed development is expected for completion by end of 2030.

The proposed medical centre aims to cater to the healthcare needs of residents in Gelugor, Bayan Baru, Bayan Lepas and surrounding communities, alongside Penang’s growing population of professionals, engineers, and industrial workforce concentrated within the Bayan Lepas manufacturing corridor. The development is also strategically positioned to support Penang’s thriving medical tourism sector, particularly international patients seeking advanced healthcare services in the region.

Designed as a digitally driven medical centre, the proposed facility is expected to incorporate advanced medical technologies, robotic-assisted systems, digital infrastructure, and patient-centric innovations to enhance both clinical excellence and patient experience.

Beyond healthcare delivery, the proposed development is also anticipated to contribute positively to Penang’s economy through the creation of high-skilled employment opportunities across healthcare, nursing, allied health, hospitality, digital health, and support services.

With aspirations to attract the foreign-trained Malaysian healthcare talents to return and serve in their homeland, the hospital is expected to generate approximately 1,000 employment opportunities upon full operation, further strengthening Penang’s position as one of Malaysia’s leading destinations for healthcare and medical tourism.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dato’ Sri Loh Kian Chong, Executive Chairman of Oriental Holdings Berhad, said the healthcare segment has a long-term vision to improve access to advanced healthcare while supporting the evolution of integrated urban living.

“This collaboration represents more than a hospital development — it reflects our commitment towards building a future-ready healthcare destination that integrates medical excellence, innovation, accessibility, and community wellbeing,” he said.

“As a stakeholder in Ideal Oriental Medical Centre, this partnership represents a landmark moment for the company”, said Puan Sri Datuk Joanne Phor, the Director of Ideal Hasrat Bumiraya Sdn Bhd, who also serves as Executive Director of Ideal Capital Berhad.

The establishment of Ideal Oriental Medical Centre within Queens Waterfront – Ideal Property Group’s flagship integrated waterfront development in Penang, is elevating Queens Waterfront beyond a premier waterfront township into a truly holistic destination that brings together quality living, wellness, business, and connectivity. Driven by a shared leadership vision, this strategic step into the medical industry marks an exciting new chapter for Ideal Property Group, tapping into a sector that continues to demonstrate strong demand both domestically and regionally.

The proposed medical centre development is expected to reinforce Penang’s position as one of Malaysia’s leading healthcare hubs while supporting the state’s long-term aspirations in healthcare excellence, medical tourism, and sustainable urban growth.

The wait is over! STARK Development is proud to officially unveil STARK Autograph as Malaysia’s first Hotel-Serviced Suites with a dedicated pool event venue. Since its announcement in February this year with a tentative name of STARK 2.0, the response has been truly impressive. STARK 2.0 was receiving an overwhelming registrations, what more now with the distinctive name STARK Autograph. Strategically rising in the heart of Bayan Lepas, Penang, just 1.3km from Penang International Airport, this is not merely a property launch. It is a defining moment for branded serviced living in Malaysia.

A Name That Commands Attention

STARK Autograph, designed as a sophisticated urban ecosystem where hospitality, lifestyle, and wellness move in harmony, every element is intentionally orchestrated to support a 24/7 lifestyle centered on modern living. Set on a sprawling 3.78-acre freehold site, the development comprises three towers – two branded serviced suite towers and one professionally operated hotel tower managed by the globally recognised Somerset by Ascott. With a total of 765 residential units across Tower A1 (43 storeys, 379 units) and Tower A2 (33A storeys, 386 units), and built-up sizes ranging from 480 to 800 sq ft, the development caters to a wide spectrum of lifestyle preferences and investment strategies.

Where Hotel Luxury Meets Residential Freedom

What truly sets STARK Autograph apart is its unique concept of hotel-grade services seamlessly woven into the comfort of your own home. At Level 7, the exclusive Time Oasis introduces Malaysia’s first hotel-serviced pool venue, purposely designed for pool parties, fashion shows and runway-style events.

Rising high above the city, STARK In The Sky houses the STARK X-Perience Club with hybrid fitness training, nutrition and wellness programmes, sports physiotherapy, and a breathtaking Sky Lounge Bar with a glass sky walk, panoramic views and Michelin-standard dining. Ground floor commercial shop lots at Levels 1 and 2 complete the live-work-play ecosystem with curated retail and dining options.

The Address That Investors Have Been Waiting For

Bayan Lepas is Penang Island’s most dynamic economic corridor, home to the Free Industrial Zone, a thriving expat community and a constant flow of business travellers and frequent flyers. With a professional hotel management team managing the suites, investors benefit from stronger market perception and long-term asset resilience.
Nearby amenities including Penang LRT, Mitsui Outlet Park and reputable schools further anchor the development’s everyday appeal.

Secure Your Signature Before the Crowd Does

Targeted for official launch in 2026, STARK Autograph is now open for registration, and early birds will enjoy the best unit selection advantage. This is your opportunity to own a piece of Malaysia’s most talked-about branded address.

Register your interest now. Call +6012 368 8999 today.