Pan Island Link 1 (PIL 1) Sparks Fresh Concerns in Penang
The proposed Pan Island Link 1 (PIL 1) highway in Penang has reignited debates among activists and environmentalists, who warn that its construction could hinder the success of the state’s planned Light Rail Transit (LRT) system.
The highway, initially approved in 2019 but delayed due to funding challenges, may now receive federal funding under the 12th Malaysia Plan, raising questions about its necessity and potential impact.
A Highway That Mirrors the LRT Alignment
PIL 1, a 19.5km six-lane highway featuring a 10km tunnel through Penang Hill, is designed to connect Gurney Drive and Bayan Lepas. However, activists argue its route closely follows the proposed Mutiara LRT line, which is expected to connect Komtar and Bayan Lepas.
According to Anil Netto, a member of the Penang Forum steering committee:
“The PIL 1 runs not far from the LRT line. That would rob the LRT of its potential riders.”
This overlap raises fears that commuters might favor private vehicles over public transportation, undermining the state’s vision of sustainable urban mobility.
Environmental Concerns Resurface
The highway has also faced sharp criticism for its potential environmental impact:
- Tunnelling through Penang Hill could disrupt fault lines, increasing the risk of subsidence and ecological degradation.
- Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) president Meenakshi Raman emphasized that the project’s original Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), approved in 2019, is outdated and needs reassessment to account for the proposed LRT and changing environmental conditions.
Activists, including Khoo Salma Nasution, have called for transparency:
“The original EIA had many errors. Why not display it again for public scrutiny?”
A Shift in Funding Approach
Initially, the Penang government planned to finance PIL 1 using proceeds from land reclamation. However, federal funding is now being considered, sparking criticism over the use of taxpayer funds for a previously self-financed project.
Netto and others argue for an alternative approach, suggesting greater investment in buses to improve public transport.
“Singapore prioritized buses before starting its MRT system in the 1980s,” he noted, highlighting Penang’s limited fleet of 200-300 public buses.
Public Opposition and Official Justifications
The Penang Forum previously submitted a 39-page objection to PIL 1, citing concerns about environmental damage, future congestion, and misalignment with sustainable transport goals.
- Economist Lim Mah Hui criticized the lack of responsiveness:
“We sent a 39-page objection, but it feels like we’ve been ignored.”
Despite these concerns, the Penang government claims broad public support for PIL 1, with officials citing 80% approval among Penangites. Supporters also argue that proper engineering can mitigate the risks associated with tunnelling.
Balancing Development and Sustainability
The PIL 1 highway presents a pivotal decision for Penang’s future. While supporters argue it will ease congestion and improve connectivity, critics warn it could jeopardize the success of the LRT system, harm the environment, and divert focus from more sustainable transport solutions.
As the federal government considers funding the project, transparency, environmental reassessment, and a thorough cost-benefit analysis will be essential to address public concerns and ensure a balanced approach to Penang’s infrastructure development.
