Penang Air Itam–Lim Chong Eu bypass project

The RM851 million Air Itam–Lim Chong Eu Expressway (LCE) bypass project in Penang has reached over 93 percent physical progress. The 5.7km route, designed to connect Bandar Ayer Itam and Farlim directly to the LCE, is expected to be completed by April 2027.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that the contractor, Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (CZC), has increased working teams to meet the deadline. While main structures like bridges and viaducts are finished, current efforts focus on paving, road barriers, and parapet connections. The route must undergo a technical compliance inspection and a road safety audit before opening to the public.

To address funding, the project utilizes a land-swap arrangement where CZC covers remaining costs, such as the RM50 million required for completion, in exchange for specific land lots in Gurney Bay. Although a six-acre land parcel near Gurney Bay failed to attract bidders during an October 7 auction, the Chief Minister confirmed the contractor can proceed using internal funding.