Penang Bridge

Fewer Vehicles...

2008-06-21T07:22:00.001+08:00

Since the fuel price increase, the number of vehicles using Penang Bridge daily has dropped. The toll plazas in Butterworth are no longer as congested as before. However, it was not so good for PBSB in terms of revenue collection.

[via TheStar.]

Proposal To Ban Heavy Vehicles During Peak Hours Approved

2008-06-19T15:32:00.004+08:00

Works Ministry had agreed on the ban, which would be imposed from 6.30am to 9.30am and from 5pm to 8pm. Heavy vehicles are those above six tonnes (without any load). Public service vehicles such as factory buses, as well as army and police trucks are exempted.
[via NST.]

To Maintain New Fuel Prices Till 2009

2008-06-08T21:24:00.003+08:00

The government hopes to maintain its new petrol and diesel prices until March next year as world crude oil prices surged to a record $139 a barrel on Friday.

[via Utusan Online.]

Fuel hike: 78 sen more to RM2.70 per litre

2008-06-04T21:03:00.001+08:00

The government has announced that petrol price will go up by 78 sen at midnight - a 40.6 percent jump from RM1.92 per litre to RM2.70.

"Effective from tomorrow, June 5, 2008, the price of petrol will be raised by 78 sen and the price of diesel will be raised by RM1," Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi told a press conference.

more...

NOTICE : Stitching Works For Bridge Structure on Penang Bridge Begins

2008-03-29T13:36:00.007+08:00

Penang Bridge Sdn Bhd (PBSB) would like to inform that UEM Construction Sdn Bhd, as the main contractor for the Penang Bridge Widening Project will carry out stitching works for the bridge structure effective from 29 March 2008. The stitching works will be carried out in stages involving Km0.7 to Km0.4 (300m distance) on Perai bound.

To avoid traffic disruption on the bridge, users are advised to limit/restrict traveling during morning peak (7.00am – 9.00am) and afternoon peak (5.00pm – 8.00pm) especially on Mondays and Fridays and public holiday/school term break.
(more...)

Salam Maulidur Rasul

2008-03-20T07:10:00.002+08:00

Selamat Menyambut Maulidur Rasul 1429H/2008M.
Menjana Ummah Gemilang.

Bridge Work Update

2008-01-05T17:24:00.000+08:00

The RM585mil Penang Bridge widening project is now about 47% completed. The project was ahead of its expected schedule of completion by 5% and expected to be completed in Aug 2009.

[via TheStar.]

Selamat Tahun Baru 2008

2007-12-31T21:27:00.000+08:00

Mengucapkan Selamat Menyambut Tahun Baru 2008...:)
Selamat memandu!!!

Use Copters To Airlift Accident Vehicles

2007-12-23T20:21:00.000+08:00

Works Minister ordered to have services to airlift vehicles involved in accidents and move it to another place so other vehicles can continue with the journey. This is to prevent traffic congestion.

[via Bernama.]

Update:
Here is the response from PBSB. Read...

Toll Rate Unchanged

2007-11-28T21:20:00.000+08:00

The Cabinet has agreed not to raise the Penang Bridge toll rate next year. More...

To check for other toll rates, here is an useful toll fare calculator by Plus Expressways Berhad.

Safe To Use

2007-11-22T19:10:00.000+08:00

Penang bridge was officially opened to traffic on September 14, 1985. It is already 22 years old. So, repair works are normal routines to replace the cables and so on; not that there is an emergency.
In addition, it is free of any serious cracks which can render the bridge unsafe.

Update:
Penang Bridge is structurally safe although cracks were noted in several locations, The cracks, which exceeded 1mm, were all located in non-critical areas. The cracks have been repaired.

No U-Turn For Vehicles Above 4m Tall

2007-11-19T18:05:00.000+08:00

Vehicles above 4m tall are no longer allowed to use the U-turn facility near the Penang Bridge office in Prai. They can alternatively use "Kawasan Perusahaan Prai 1" route way to proceed to "Kawasan Perusahaan Prai 2,3,4.

(Click to enlarge the roadmap.)

A height-limit bar has been placed to prohibit them from using this stretch.

This stretch was intermittently closed to all traffic between midnight and 6am. This was to enable the launching of large beams on to the pile-cap structures near the bridge.

To get updates on the frequent road closures, please register with OTIM for free sms alert.

Man Died Falling Off The Bridge

2007-11-16T05:38:00.000+08:00

On Thursday at 8:45am, a motorcyclist spotted a man struggling in the water at KM7.4 (way to Mainland). The man is a director of an electronics firm in Butterworth died after falling off the Penang Bridge. Marine police found the body at 3.45pm.

[via TheStar.]

Pilling Works Completed March Next Year

2007-10-28T10:59:00.000+08:00

UEM Builders managing director Datuk Ridza Abdoh Salleh said the piling works for the expansion of the Penang Bridge were progressing based on schedule and had not affected the bridge structure will be completed by March 2008.

[via TheStar.]

Proposal To Ban Heavy Vehicles Rejected

2007-10-20T15:40:00.002+08:00

The Works Ministry has rejected the proposal to ban heavy vehicles from the Penang Bridge during peak hours to overcome traffic congestion.

Minister Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu said the ministry was not in favour of such a move because all the lorries are there for business and not for fun.
[via Bernama.]

Update: The state will submit another proposal to the Works Ministry to reschedule the time allowed for heavy vehicles to use the Penang Bridge.

Salam Aidilfitri

2007-10-13T03:29:00.000+08:00

Mengucapkan Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir Batin kepada semua rakyat Malaysia, khususnya kepada yang beragama Islam.

Alternate Route To Prai

2007-10-09T18:26:00.001+08:00

If the traffic from Bayan Lepas congested at the region as in the snapshot, consider to take an alternate route.

Ban Proposal May Be Implemented Soon

2007-10-09T18:12:00.000+08:00

If everything goes well, the proposal to ban heavy vehicles from using the Penang Bridge during peak hours may be implemented by early next year. This proposal still pending for the approval from Works Ministry.

[via TheStar.]

Update: This proposal has been rejected. More details...

Suggest Contra Lane During Raya

2007-10-08T20:37:00.000+08:00

Penang police chief Datuk Koh suggested that if the lanes to the mainland are badly congested while island-bound traffic is smooth, open a contra lane by removing the bridge's concrete divider to allow motorists to use part of the opposite lane if their lane was congested.
[via Bernama.]

Bridge Widening Project 45% Completed

2007-10-08T20:21:00.000+08:00

UEM Construction Sdn Bhd is confident of completing the entire project by Sept 22 next year - a period of 143 weeks. This project is carried out between midnight and 6am to avoid peak traffic hours by 500 local and foreign workers. The bridge would have four lanes on each side including exclusive motorcycle lanes. There would be no divider to separate the motorcycle and car lanes. Mid-span structure on the bridge would remain unchanged. When widened, Mid-span will not have any lay-bys for vehicles to stop for sight-seeing.

[via TheStar.]

30 Minutes Closure

2007-10-04T18:15:00.000+08:00

Please be informed that Penang Bridge will be closed on 05/10/07, Friday for 30 minutes from 2:30a.m. to 3:00a.m. in the morning due to bridge widening works.

Update:
Removal of gantry for widening works had successfully been carried out for less than 10 minutes. No traffic queue/congestion observed.

Right Lane Closed (KM4.8 - KM4.6)

2007-09-23T20:54:00.000+08:00

Right lane closed at KM4.8 - KM4.6 (Midspan, emergency lane & left lane still available for traffic) Prai Bound begins 23/09/07 - 25/09/07 due to cable rectification work by TNB. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Bus Brokedown Caused Traffic Jam

2007-09-14T21:12:00.000+08:00

Around 9a.m. this morning, a bus brokedown at KM2.6 Penang bound due to the two rear tyres accidentally came loose, badly damaged. The bus had been successfully repaired/removed at 1:20p.m.

Update:

Chronology of event :-

9:05 a.m. : PB Ronda spotted a bus brokedown at KM2.6 Penang bound.

9:06 a.m. : PBCC contacted a mechanic from Bukit Mertajam, informed PBSB officers, MHA and traffic police SPT.

9:45 a.m. : Median opening at KM1.9 dismantled.

10:25 a.m. : Mechanic arrived. (...more spare parts are required to bring to the site...)

1:20 p.m. : Mechanic fixed one of the tyres and towed to the nearest layby.

Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!

2007-08-31T03:49:00.000+08:00

Selamat menyambut hari kemerdekaan yang ke-50. Semoga negara kita hidup dalam keamanan dan kemakmuran untuk selama-lamanya.

Update: PBSB was giving away 100 free hampers to the bridge commuters for Merdeka celebration. Emico seems very happy with her hamper. :)

Proposal To Overcome Traffic Snarls

2007-08-10T19:37:00.000+08:00

The state is submitting a proposal to the Works Ministry to overcome traffic snarls on the Penang Bridge caused by heavy vehicles.

Under the proposal, the vehicles including lorries and trucks would not be allowed to enter the bridge during peak hours from 7-10am and 4-7pm.

[via TheStar.]

Update: This proposal has been rejected. More details...

Crashed Car Caused Huge Traffic

2007-08-09T21:38:00.000+08:00

On Wednesday, a crashed car at KM7 (from Island to Prai) caused a huge traffic snarl on both ends of the bridge.
Here is the full story.

Free OTIM SMS Alert

2007-08-04T07:50:00.000+08:00

If you want to receive auto SMS alert from OTIM on Penang Bridge critical traffic status e.g. massive jam, bridge closed, accident, lane closure, etc, please register with OTIM.

To register, type
OTIM REG

To deregister, type
OTIM UNREG

and send to OTIM SMS numbers. SMS from OTIM is free.

China Best Workers Employed For 2nd Bridge

2007-07-29T17:26:00.000+08:00

The most experienced workers and professionals from China will be employed for building the Second Penang Bridge.

CHEC (China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd), which is developing the Second Penang Bridge together with UEM, has given the commitment to the Malaysian government to start work on the bridge in early November if all relevant approvals and documentation on the Malaysian side are completed by Aug 1.

The 8146m Sutong bridge, the first in CHEC's list to use the short-line-matching technology for building the bridge across the Yangtze River, linking Nantong city and Suzhou city in the province is also the world's first longest stayed cable bridge.

The Penang Second Bridge will be also built using the same technology.

[via BERNAMA.]

US$800mil Loan Deal For 2nd Bridge Project

2007-07-13T18:51:00.000+08:00

The Exim Bank of China inked a deal on Friday to give an US$800mil (RM2.7bil), an interest rate of three per cent per annum over 20 years to build a 23-kilometer bridge, 17km on water.
Upon its completion in 2011, would be the longest such link in South East Asia.
[via BERNAMA.]

Third-Land Expansion Project Faces Technical Problems

2007-07-08T08:59:00.000+08:00

The RM200mil expansion of the existing bridge has encountered some technical problems due to intensified piling works. And this would cause the existing structures to sink in further as the piling works were done too near to the bridge, with the nearest about 5m away.

Motorists/Motorcyclists need not worry about such problems as the situation was under control. Engineers are working round-the-clock to monitor the problems.

[via TheStar.]

Closure of Bridge

2007-06-18T16:33:00.000+08:00

The bridge will be closed in conjunction with the Penang Marathon 2007 from 2.00a.m. to 10.00a.m. on June 24.

Smart Tag for RM50

2007-06-15T10:21:00.000+08:00

The normal price for a unit is RM100.
Motorists will only pay RM65 for a set. Each motorist allowed to buy one only.
RM65 = RM50 (Smart Tag) + RM10 (Prepaid Credit) + RM5 (Touch 'n Go Card)
Will be available at the Penang Bridge next month. [will update this once it is available.]
[via The Star.]

Congestion On The Bridge

2007-06-14T07:43:00.000+08:00

At least 40 accidents and 300 vehicle breakdowns occurred every month causing traffic congestion on the bridge. Penang Bridge commuters are encouraged to check on the traffic situation via an SMS service known as the Online Traffic Information Management (OTIM) system, said PBSB chief operating officer Suhaina Baharudin.
[via BERNAMA.]

*Safety tips for Motorcyclists & Motorists before the journey.

Cable Work At Bridge Mid Span

2007-06-07T08:25:00.001+08:00

The closure of the left lanes on both sides at bridge mid span to facilitate replacement of the "cable stay". The replacement work began in April and expect to complete by December 2008. This is part of the ongoing work to upgrade and expand the bridge.

[via NST.]

SMS To Check Traffic

2007-04-26T18:32:00.000+08:00

With OTIM system, users can check the traffic via SMS.

Here are the steps:

1. Type otim [space] [location-code]

Where [location-code];
topen = Towards Penang Island
toprai = Towards Seberang Perai
kepen = Arah Pulau Pinang
keprai = Arah Seberang Perai

examples:

otim topen
otim kepen
otim toprai
otim keprai

2. Send to OTIM SMS numbers

Where SMS numbers;
Maxis:
012-344 6900
012-434 5366
017-407 0366
012-491 5366
012-492 5366
017-407 1366

DiGi:
016-339 0999
016-416 8666

Celcom:
013-388 3131
019-573 3666
013-523 3666
019-445 9644

3. Here is a sample of traffic status which is updated by the Supervisor at Control Centre.

Koay Admitted The Phone Call

2007-04-07T13:05:00.000+08:00

The phone call which led to the closure of the Penang Bridge (4-April) came from State Works and Public Utilities Committee chairman Datuk Koay Kar Huah. Koay said don't blame him for making that call.

Massive Jam After Bomb Hoax

2007-04-05T00:42:00.000+08:00

April 4 -- Police closed both lanes on the bridge shortly after receiving a call about a bomb being placed on the bridge. The bridge was closed from 4.45pm causing a masive traffic jam. About 6.30pm, police found a metal pipe measuring 30.48cm long at location ~~KM38~~ KM3.8. After the police had ensured the situation was safe, it was reopened to the public at about 7pm.
[via BERNAMA.] [Snapshot taken at 5:10pm]

Update: April 6 -- The recordings from a CCTV (positioned near the site where a foreign object was found following the false bomb threat) have been surrendered to the police to facilitate investigations into a bomb hoax. [via TheStar.]

If you see any suspicious person loitering on Penang Bridge, please call 1-300-13-0003.
[post updated as of 06-04-07, 3:31pm.]

Existing Bridge Project Inventory

2007-03-30T23:03:00.000+08:00

BRIDGE CROSS-SECTION

TYPICAL CROSS-SECTION

For more, here is the link.

Half An Hour Bridge Closed Notice

2007-03-13T07:19:00.000+08:00

Due to the expansion work, bridge will be closed on 14-Mar-07 from 2:30AM to 3:00AM.

Penang Bridge Marathon 2007

2007-02-23T11:16:00.000+08:00

Lembaga Lebuhraya Malaysia (LLM) dan Majlis Perbandaran Pulau Pinang (MPPP) dengan kerjasama Kerajaan Negeri Pulau Pinang, Kementerian Pelancongan Malaysia, Kementerian Kerja Raya Malaysia, Kementerian Belia & Sukan Malaysia, Majlis Tindakan Pelancongan Negeri Pulau Pinang, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Persatuan Olahraga Amatur Pulau Pinang dan Penang Bridge Sdn. Bhd. akan menganjurkan Penang Bridge Marathon 2007 pada 24 Jun 2007 .
Wow...Kejohanan Penang Bridge Marathon 2007 ini menawarkan hadiah wang tunai sebanyak RM 120,000.00 untuk dimenangi.
Tarikh tutup penyertaan: HARI AHAD, 27 MEI 2007 JAM 4.30 PETANG
Borang: Muat Turun.
Laman Web: LLMNet

Traffic During CNY

2007-02-11T12:43:00.000+08:00

100,000 extra vehicles from outstation will be making their way to the island from Feb 15 onwards. 80% of these vehicles were expected to use the Penang Bridge to enter the island. To make the roads 'jam-free', a tow truck will be stationed on both sides of the Penang Bridge so that vehicles that break down can be towed away immediately and not caused a snarl.
[via TheStar.]

New HOTLINE

2007-01-09T18:57:00.000+08:00

Motorists/Motorcyclists who are in need of assistance can call HOTLINE at ~~1-800-88-0000 (old)~~ 1-300-13-0003 (new).

Happy New Year 2007

2007-01-01T11:19:00.000+08:00

Wishing all a joyous and peaceful 2007. Have a nice day!!!

Bridge Real-Time Traffic Via WAP/SMS

2006-12-29T20:57:00.000+08:00

PBSB is launching OTI (Online Traffic Information) which provides real-time traffic monitoring on the bridge via WAP for Smart Phones/PDAs, short messaging system (SMS), Live BridgeCam.

For smart phones/PDAs users, bookmark this url http://penangbridge.com.my/pbt.htm or go to PDF file for more details.
For SMS users, go to PDF file for instructions.

[Post updated as of 5th Jan 07, 18:41pm.]

Bridge Update

2006-12-17T19:49:00.000+08:00

Contractors have completed about 10 per cent of the overall physical work to widen the Penang Bridge. Expected to be completed by September 2008.

[via NST.]

Opening Of New Toll Plaza A

2006-12-16T16:44:00.000+08:00

All lanes at Toll Plaza A are now accessible. There are sign boards allocated along the way to toll plaza.

A Tank Truck Broke Down

2006-12-09T19:11:00.000+08:00

A tank truck broke down at location KM0.5 (End of Bridge Prai) on the way from Bayan Lepas to Prai around 6:30pm. It is cleared at 7:00pm. Traffic still slow moving...

UEM Was Picked For 2nd Bridge, Why?

2006-12-06T14:25:00.000+08:00

Because it can carry out major projects with high technical expertise. Another reason was that UEM's subsidiary Penang Bridge Sdn Bhd (PBSB) holds the concessionaire for the present bridge. [Link.]

Stench Close To Toll Booth Ended Soon

2006-12-05T12:22:00.000+08:00

Stench(foul smell) has been there for almost 20 years in the area, close to the toll booth on the mainland side of the Penang Bridge, was caused by industrial wastes from the many factories at the nearby Prai Industrial zone. Finally, RM9 million has been allocated to sort out the drainage and upgrade pump houses in the industrial area.

[via NST.]

A Handphone Found At Penang Bridge Midspan

2006-12-05T09:31:00.000+08:00

Here is the story...three men found a handphone under the midspan of the Penang Bridge, got it repaired and made long distance calls using the SIM card in the phone. Bukit Aman task force set up to investigate the case tracked down the three men through the telecommunications service provider last week when they started using the phone.

It was no ordinary handphone - it belonged to one of the 17 victims beaten up in the daring US$12.7mil (RM47mil) microchip heist at the Second Air Cargo Complex in the Batu Maung Free Commercial Zone on Nov 20.

Police investigations showed that one of the robbers dumped the handphone at the spot while heading towards the mainland after the robbery.

[via TheStar.]

2 New Lanes For Motorists Open

2006-11-30T07:28:00.000+08:00

There are total 5 lanes for motorists at Penang Bridge new Toll Plaza A.

2 lanes - for Cash and Touch 'n Go --> Now open for motorists.
2 lanes - for Touch 'n Go users only --> Open.
1 lane - for Smart Tag users only --> Open.

Have a nice day!!!

~~Post updated as of 03-12-06, 6:29pm.~~
~~Post updated as of 06-12-06, 08:38am.~~
Post updated as of 16-12-06, 15:21am.

Van Broke Down

2006-11-24T20:16:00.000+08:00

A van broke down at location KM7.6 around 7:40pm, 24th Nov 06 (End of Bridge).

Two Trailers Crashed

2006-11-24T15:18:00.000+08:00

There is an accident (two trailers crashed - around 2:00pm) at location KM3.4 causing masive jam along the way from Island to Mainland. Only one lane available for traffic.

Update: It is cleared at 3:45pm :) Enjoy your trip and have a nice day!!!

Massive Jam

2006-11-17T20:02:00.000+08:00

A lorry broke down at location KM8.5 (End of Bridge, Island) causing massive jam. The snapshots were taken at 7:40pm, Friday, 17/Nov.

2nd Bridge To Have Two Viewing Platforms

2006-11-13T23:00:00.000+08:00

The 24-kilometre bridge (South-East Asia's longest bridge when completed) would have two viewing platforms at the middle span above the sea level that will feature pearls and sculpted eraca palm or 'pinang' trees in its design.

The platforms will enable travellers and tourists to enjoy the panoramic view of the mainland and the island. The two-level platforms will have car park bays at the lower level and a pedestrian crossing that connects both platforms. (see Image and also facts & figures by TheStar.)

2nd Bridge To Boost Economy

2006-11-12T21:19:00.000+08:00

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Sunday launched the construction of a 2nd bridge linking the northern island of Penang with peninsular Malaysia.

"The RM3 billion bridge is part of a national development plan to boost the country's economy in the northern region," he said.

"Penang will be a hub for the northern development corridor for transportation, especially port and airport, after the completion of the second bridge," he added.

"The bridge will provide the catalyst for the development of the northern corridor. Such a facility is needed to provide the impetus for the development," he said.

Construction of the planned 24-kilometer (15-mile) bridge linking the town of Batu Maung on the island and Batu Kawan on the mainland is expected to be completed by January 2011. Contractors, big or small, and sub-contractors of the 2nd bridge must work efficiently and effectively to ensure that there is no delay or cost overrun in the RM3 billion project. Abdullah also directed Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon to fast-track all approvals relating to the project.

Ferry service will not be stopped when the 2nd bridge is completed, he told reporters after performing the groundbreaking for the 2nd bridge project in Batu Kawan.

Garbage Affected by 2nd Bridge

2006-11-08T20:32:00.000+08:00

It is reported that the jetty in Batu Maung, which is being used to transport 700 metric tonnes of garbage to Pulau Burung sanitary landfill daily, will be affected by the construction of the 2nd bridge. Garbage problem need to be resolved as soon as possible as work on the bridge will begin soon.

[via The Star.]

Land Segment Design For 2nd Bridge Completed

2006-11-07T13:10:00.000+08:00

The design for the land segment of the second Penang bridge in Batu Kawan on the mainland has been completed. 2/3 of the land belongs to the Penang Deve-lopment Corporation (PDC), the other 1/3 is private land. The design of the bridge for the sea segment will be completed soon. All the engineering details and alignment have been finalised.

[via TheStar.]

PORR Should Be Ready Together With 2nd Bridge

2006-11-07T07:53:00.000+08:00

The 17-km Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) from the Penang Bridge to Tanjong Bungah, should be completed at the same time as the Second Penang Bridge in 2010.

[via BERNAMA.]

Groundbreaking For 2nd Link On Nov 12

2006-11-02T07:41:00.000+08:00

The groundbreaking ceremony for the second bridge link will be held in Batu Kawan on Nov 12 at 10am. To be present at the ceremony are Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, Works Minister Datuk Seri S.Samy Vellu and United Engineers (Malaysia) Berhad chairman Datuk Abu Hassan Kendut. See you there!!!

[via Sun2Surf.]

Outages on Penang Bridge Blog

2006-10-27T21:40:00.000+08:00

You might have noticed some unexpected downtime this week, really sorry for that -- here's the story. Would recommend to bookmark the official BridgeCam for Penang Bridge real-time snapshots.

Happy Deepavali & Salam Aidilfitri

2006-10-21T09:33:00.000+08:00

Best wishes to all...Happy Deepavali & Salam Aidilfitri!!! Have a safe and enjoyable journey.

New Lane For Motorbike Open

2006-10-18T07:36:00.000+08:00

Penang Bridge new toll plaza is now open for motorcyclists only. Motorcyclists should always keep left before reaching the penang bridge toll plaza and there are new sign boards allocated a long the way as well. Enjoy and have a nice day!!!

Compulsory Checks For Used Cars

2006-10-16T09:44:00.000+08:00

The Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) has proposed to the Government to make it mandatory for all used cars to be inspected by the company prior to transfer of ownership. This is to avoid "potong kereta" (used cars with cannibalised parts) were sold and used on the road. If a car is found to be a potong kereta, the finance company will not approve the loan.

[via BERNAMA.]

No Reduction For Petrol Price

2006-10-16T09:37:00.000+08:00

The Government will not reduce the price of petrol despite the global price of crude oil dropping to US$57.24 (RM210) a barrel. It means the Government will spend less on petrol subsidy and make up for the loss in income when the oil price shot up early this year.

[via TheStar.]

Car With GPS Technology

2006-10-15T06:38:00.000+08:00

With the help of Global Positioning System tracking device, the victims managed to track their car abandoned at Km8.5 of the Penang Bridge's Butterworth-bound lane.
more...

[Image by NST.]

Ramadan Goodies For The Needy

2006-10-14T16:37:00.000+08:00

83 poor families, including single mothers from two villages (Kampung Sungai Semilang and Kampung Kuala Juru) in Bukit Mertajam, received Ramadan goodies worth RM100 by Penang Bridge Sdn Bhd. PBSB is also planning to treat the orphans during Hari Raya celebration.

[via TheStar.]

Robbers Stuck At Touch 'n Go

2006-10-14T09:32:00.000+08:00

Two robbers who fled on a motorcycle took the Penang Bridge but got stuck when they entered a Touch 'n Go lane because they did not have the swipe card. While they were struggling to get past the barrier, the policemen caught up with them.

[via NST.]

Second Bridge To Start On Nov 12

2006-10-08T08:35:00.000+08:00

Work on Penang's second bridge will start from Nov 12 this year. The construction would start with piling works at Simpang Ampat.

[via BERNAMA.]

Plus' Jom Balik Kampung Contest

2006-10-06T23:30:00.000+08:00

In order to participate in this contest, participants must collect toll receipts with a cumulative minimum value fo RM15 per week till Oct 21. Winners will win RM2,000 in free toll valid over a year. You can obtain details at here. Good Luck...:)

Check Your Demerit Points Online

2006-09-26T19:27:00.000+08:00

JPJ has a road safety demerit system called Sistem Kejara. It is a point demerit system whereby if a motorist exceeds 15 points, the user's drivers licence could be suspended for six months. Ensuing offences would result in further suspension and finally a permanent cancellation of the drivers licence.

Now you can check your demerit points online through Kejara Inquiry.

Harder Now to Get Car Loan

2006-09-11T08:49:00.000+08:00

Financial institutions have tightened conditions for all applications. The banks are now verifying the credit standing of borrowers to reduce risks.

All loan applications would now be subjected to a financial rating system based on Bank Negara's Central Credit Reference Information System (CCRIS) and two private credit reference agencies - Credit Tip Off Service Sdn Bhd (CTOS) and Financial Information System (FIS) Sdn Bhd.

The officer said the applicant's data such as name, MyKad number, occupation, salary, existing loans and other relevant details would be keyed into the system.

CTOS and FIS provide details of the individual's credit standing with other banks, while CCRIS tracks a borrower's repayment patterns, spending patterns and habits, as well as his credit card and other electronic transaction records in the last 10 to 20 years.

The collective data will then assign a credit rating - an A rating will render the applicant automatic qualification for the loan; a B rating means the loan can be considered; C means the application will be rejected but the borrower can appeal to the bank; while D means the rejection is final.

[via TheStar.]

Car ablaze, Massive Jams

2006-09-06T20:36:00.000+08:00

(05-Sept-06) A car on the way to the island was destroyed after it caught fire at Km13.5 of the Penang Bridge causing a traffic stand- still with the jam stretching beyond the toll plazas.

Nine firemen in two fire engines rushed to the scene after receiving a call at 8.24am, reached the site at 8.40am and the fire was put out within minutes. Traffic flow towards the mainland was also affected as curious motorists slowed down to watch.
[via TheStar.]

Correction: It caught fire at Km6.6

Reduction of Traffic Fines Postponed

2006-09-06T19:41:00.000+08:00

Police have slashed traffic fines by as much as RM200 to encourage offenders to pay their summonses. Another effect of this reduction will be less corruption as offenders will have fewer reasons to offer bribes to traffic cops.

Internal Security and Public Order director Datuk Mustafa Abdullah, who announced the new rates at a press conference in Bukit Aman on 05-Sept-06.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy surprised over move to reduce traffic fines. The reduction of fines could send a wrong message to road users, especially habitual offenders.

The Cabinet has decided to postpone the reduction of traffic fines by the police.

There is an online poll on this issue.

Latest update (07-Sept-06): Fines stay at old rates for now.

Latest update (12-Sept-06): No fines reductions for speeding, queue jumping, beating traffic lights, overtaking on a double line and driving on the emergency lane.

Second Bridge To Have Man-made Island

2006-09-06T03:50:00.000+08:00

The second penang bridge will have a man-made island that will be turned into a rest and recreation (R&R) centre. The island will be equipped with various modern facilities for the use of consumers and will become the latest tourist attraction in the state.

Modelling the bridge after a modern bridge in Japan was among the latest ideas that had been discussed in relation to the design of the bridge. This was the outcome of planning conducted by local consultants with the cooperation of consultants from Japan entrusted with the structural design of the bridge.

The bridge would have four lanes, two in each direction, as well as a three-metre wide motorcycle lane in each direction, with a toll plaza in Batu Kawan. A speed limit of 80km/hr will be imposed.

The project would take four years, with one year for the design process and three years for construction. Construction would be undertaken through the Private Financing Initiative (PFI) under the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP) whereby the concession to build, manage, operate and maintain is given to the UEM Group which also holds the concession for the existing Penang Bridge.
[via BERNAMA.]

Selamat Hari Merdeka Ke-49

2006-08-31T06:42:00.000+08:00

...Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!.....

Penang Bridge Satellite Image

2006-08-23T20:56:00.000+08:00

If you click on any of the real-time snapshots above, you will be redirected to the satellite image of the Penang Bridge (Mid Span, End of Bridge...) at Google maps.
For the satellite image of Penang, go here.

How to Check Car Tires Expiry Date?

2006-08-14T22:12:00.000+08:00

Vehicle tires have a 4-year validity period from their Date of Manufacture (DOM). Thereafter, the tire expires and may burst whilst in use.

How to find out the manufacturing date?
From the picture, 4002 shows that the tire is made in week 40 from year 2002. (One year has 52 weeks.)

*Tips: When you change your vehicle tires, make sure to check the expiry date.

[via PDF.]

2nd Penang Bridge Detailed Plan

2006-08-05T07:11:00.000+08:00

The UEM Group will submit a detailed plan to the Government on the second Penang bridge in 3 months. The details will include the development structure of the bridge, cost and ways to fund the project.

[via BERNAMA.]

Awarded Second Penang Bridge Project

2006-08-03T15:27:00.000+08:00

UEM Group has been appointed the concessionaire to build, manage, operate and maintain the second Penang bridge. Abdullah cited UEM's extensive expertise and experience and the fact that it is the concession holder for the existing Penang Bridge as the winning factors.

[via BERNAMA.]

Update: Work on the 24-kilometre second Penang bridge is to start in the middle of next year, after the state government completes land acquisition for it.

Bridge closed for Marathon

2006-07-25T21:37:00.000+08:00

Penang Bridge will close to traffic from 3am to 10am this Sunday (30th July 2006) for the Penang Bridge International Marathon 2006.

As an alternative, the ferry service will be operational 24 hours on that day. From 11pm Saturday to 6am Sunday, the ferry service would be every 15 minutes while from 6am to 6.20am, the frequency would be every 10 minutes.

All roads leading to the bridge both on the island and in Seberang Perai would also be closed.

Update: A total of 9,022 runners sign up for marathon.

Pothole Repair Done

2006-07-23T09:28:00.000+08:00

"I was crossing the Penang bridge and noticed this huge depression just before the butterworth side toll gate. Imagine rolling into that hole at night when visibility is poor."
- doctorchan
[via flikr.]

Pothole repair is done!!!
Have a nice day....

Need Assistance

2006-07-08T06:36:00.000+08:00

Motorists/Motorcyclists who are in need of assistance can call new HOTLINE at 1-800-88-0000. 24-hour bridge patrolling vehicles can handle minor breakdowns.

You can also use the same number to report any suspicious person loitering on Penang Bridge.

What To Do If Your Car Catches Fire

2006-07-05T20:55:00.000+08:00

RM600,000 CLS 350 Mercedes-Benz went up on flames causing a massive traffic jam on Penang bridge(mid span) last Saturday(1st July 2006).
[via NST.]

A fire in one's car or other motor vehicle is a frightening situation which can quickly involve great personal danger to vehicle occupants and bystanders. What to do if your car catches fire?

While you are moving on a roadway:
1. Signal your intentions and move to the right lane.
2. Get onto the shoulder or breakdown lane.
3. Stop immediately.
4. Shut off the engine.
5. Get yourself and all other persons out of the vehicle.
6. Get far away from the vehicle and stay away from it. Keep onlookers and others away.
7. Warn oncoming traffic.
8. Notify the fire department. (JBPM PULAU PINANG)
9. Don't attempt to try to put out the fire yourself. (The unseen danger is the possible ignition of fuel in the vehicle's tank.)

While the vehicle is stopped in traffic or parked:
1. Shut off the engine.
2. Get far away from the vehicle.
3. Warn pedestrians and other vehicles to stay away.
4. (See No. 8 and No. 9 above).

In all vehicle fire situations, the first thing to think about is personal safety; any vehicle can be replaced -- human lives cannot. Think and act quickly, in the safest way possible.
[via NSC.org.]

*Note: You are advised to service your car often.

4 cams added

2006-07-02T16:12:00.000+08:00

To know where the location of the bridge cams, please go to here.

Call 1-800-88-0000

2006-06-25T21:06:00.000+08:00

If you see any suspicious person loitering on Penang Bridge, please call 1-800-88-0000.
[via TheStar.]

Water Interruption on 16 July 2006

2006-06-22T10:39:00.000+08:00

Water supply will be interrupted at the following places (Location) from 7.00 am to 7.00 pm on 16 July 2006 (Sunday).
[via FMM.]

Bridge Works Update

2006-06-11T09:17:00.000+08:00

The placing of screens along the bridge's central divider, busy-bodies no longer stop on the opposite lane to take a look at accidents. In other words, people can no longer see what's happening on the other side.

The first phase involving the widening of the toll plaza. Expected to be completed in September.

The second phase involving the widening of the bridge. Works are expected to begin in the middle of this month and expected to be completed in 16 months.

The third phase involving the construction of roads from Jalan Perusahaan leading to the bridge would start next year.

The whole process will take up to 33 months and the whole expansion of the bridge is expected to be completed by September 2008.

The expansion would see a new lane on each side of the bridge comprising a 2m-wide lane for motorcycles and a 3.5m-wide lane for other vehicles.

[via TheStar.]

Ops Warta VI

2006-06-06T22:30:00.000+08:00

The police was launching Ops Warta VI on Monday 05/06/06. 11 detained in Penang for not paying traffic summonses under Ops Warta VI. State traffic police operations chief Deputy Superintendent Abdul Aziz Yeop said 34 people settled their traffic summonses on the first day of the operation after police visited 94 houses. The operation would last until August 3.
[via NST.]

CELCOM (013 dan 019) subscribers can also check through SMS summons status by typing summons vehicle registration number and send to 32232.
You can also check your summons and pay the compound through www.rilek.com.my, www.eservices.com.my and www.myeg.com.my

Update:
Alternatively, you can use this express link to check for summons(es) as well.

Power tariffs hike by 12%

2006-05-24T16:03:00.000+08:00

Power tariffs would rise by 12% with effect from June 1. To protect low income earners, the first 200 khw, or RM44 ringgit on each monthly bill, are exempted from the hike.
[via TheEdgeDaily.]

UEM Builders posts Q1 gain

2006-05-24T07:52:00.000+08:00

UEM Builders Berhad posted a net profit of RM41.31 million for the period ended March 31 2006, compared with a net loss of RM14.7 million in the same quarter last year. Revenue rose by 42 per cent to RM373.15 million for the quarter, from RM262.6 million it made in the same period last year.
UEM Builders said Penang Bridge Sdn Bhd continued to register steady traffic volume, which results in providing steady income for the toll concession activities.
[via TheEdgeDaily.]

Updates:
UEM Builders Berhad's financial results.
[Thanks BursaMalaysia.]

Jelutong Bridge

2006-05-17T19:17:00.000+08:00

Jelutong Bridge which was built in 1907 cannot handle the load of modern traffic. The structure of the bridge had weakened and will be demolished to make way for a new RM13.8 million bridge. Work will start by July and will be completed by the end of next year, expected 18 months.
[via NST.]

'Celebrate Mother's Day' contest

2006-05-13T06:37:00.000+08:00

For further details, go to http://www.penangbridge.com.my/mother.php or contact the Corporate Communications Department at 03-7981 8000

2nd bridge as high impact project

2006-05-11T06:15:00.000+08:00

The second penang bridge under the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP) needed to be implemented quickly, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mohd Effendi Norwawi.
[via BERNAMA.]

Aliens visited Penang?

2006-05-05T20:21:00.000+08:00

An Australian tourist who wished to remain anonymous spotted an Unknown Flying Object (UFO) while he was photographing the sunrise around 8am from the balcony of his hotel room. The photograph is here.

Keep at the right lane

2006-05-04T07:51:00.000+08:00

From Prai to Penang, few kilometres away before the junction (at the end of bridge), always keep left if you are heading to Bayan Lepas otherwise keep right to Georgetown. This is to avoid slow traffic at the junction especially early in the morning. Heavy vehicles and slow drivers are advised to keep left unless overtake other vehicles.

Police & Your Basic Rights

2006-05-04T05:11:00.000+08:00

"Police & Your Basic Rights" booklet which can be downloaded from this (in PDF format) covers the most common situations of interaction between the public and the police, for example, when a police officer stops, questions or arrests someone...

To view the booklet online, go here.
[Thanks samurajdata.se for PDF online viewer tool.]

May Day

2006-05-01T05:22:00.000+08:00

Have a great Labour Day!!!

The origins...

Hyundai eyes on second link

2006-04-28T23:21:00.000+08:00

The 13.5km Penang Bridge (RM800mil) was officially opened in 1985 and had ranked as the longest bridge in Asia and 5th largest in the world. Hyundai was the main contractor. Now, Hyundai has expressed an interest in participating in the construction of Penang's second bridge.

[via Sun2Surf.]

Companies that interested in second bridge can make proposals directly to the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) in the Prime Minister's Department not to the state government. "The tender for the bridge is yet to be given out and the EPU is still discussing the details," Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said.

[via BERNAMA.]

Penang First Choice Of Japanese

2006-04-26T06:01:00.000+08:00

...Penang is the first choice of Japanese citizens when it comes to choosing a second home, the newly-appointed Japanese Consul-General here, Hideaki Hoshi, said Tuesday...
...He said Penang as a resort city had gained popularity among the Japanese and many of them, mostly retired and senior citizens, were considering taking part in the "Malaysia My Second Home" programme in Penang...
[via BERNAMA.]