Penang to enforce strict measures on non-compliant developers and contractors

Penang will implement strict measures against developers and contractors who fail to comply with regulations, causing public distress and property damage. Penang infrastructure and transport committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari emphasized that actions such as stop-work orders and fines would be enforced in response to any violations.

This announcement came after Connie Tan Hooi Peng (PH-Seri Delima) raised concerns about disturbances from the construction of the Air Itam-Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway bypass (Package Two) in her constituency. Zairil confirmed that stern warnings had been issued to the project developer, stressing that non-compliance could lead to immediate stop-work orders or fines. He also mentioned that he chairs monthly progress meetings to monitor the project’s adherence to regulations.

On May 22, the design-and-build contractor for the bypass project, Consortium Zenith Construction (CZC) Sdn Bhd, received a stop-work order for violating regulations by working on public holidays, outside the permitted hours. The unauthorized work was not related to mitigation matters.

Responding to another question by Joseph Ng (PH-Air Itam) about measures to prevent flash floods along Lebuhraya Thean Teik near the project site, Zairil noted that the issue had been addressed. The developer has deepened existing sedimentation ponds and constructed additional ones to mitigate flood risks. The developer is also responsible for post-flood cleaning works.

Recently, debris from blasting works at the RM850 million Air Itam bypass construction site damaged two condominium blocks in Island Park, affecting property and vehicles. Nearby houses have also been impacted, particularly during rain, as work site residue flowed into residential compounds.

The bypass project, expected to be completed next year, aims to reduce the current 40-minute drive between Bandar Baru Air Itam and the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway to under 10 minutes. Package Two includes three interchanges and involves upgrading the drainage system, existing roads, and utility relocation in the project area.