Letter to Editor
PENANG has long been recognised as one of Malaysia’s most important economic and tourism hubs. As a UNESCO World Heritage city, George Town continues to attract visitors from around the world while supporting a thriving manufacturing and services sector.
Yet traffic congestion remains one of the state’s biggest challenges. The January 2025 report ranking George Town as Malaysia’s most congested city and 73rd globally came as little surprise.
For many residents and visitors, long queues and unpredictable journey times have become part of daily life.
Congestion affects more than convenience. It reduces productivity, increases fuel consumption and logistics costs, and diminishes the overall visitor experience.
If Penang is to strengthen its position as a leading destination for investment, tourism and high-value industries, improving transport efficiency must remain a priority.
Among the measures worth considering is barrierless tolling on the Penang Bridge.
As one of Malaysia’s busiest transport links and a vital economic artery connecting the island with the mainland, the bridge carries thousands of commuters, commercial vehicles and tourists every day.
Although electronic toll collection has significantly improved traffic flow over the years, vehicles must still slow down and converge at toll plazas before dispersing again.
Removing this physical bottleneck could further improve traffic movement, particularly during peak periods.
While barrierless tolling alone will not eliminate congestion, it can remove one of the recurring choke points along the route.
More predictable travel times would benefit commuters, freight operators and businesses by improving reliability while reducing unnecessary fuel consumption and vehicle wear.
The benefits extend beyond operational efficiency. For many visitors travelling from the mainland, the Penang Bridge provides their first impression of the island.
A smoother journey reflects positively on Penang and demonstrates Malaysia’s continued commitment to modernising its transport infrastructure through intelligent transport systems.
In this regard, the Penang Bridge concessionaire should seriously consider adopting an Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) barrierless tolling system.
Such systems allow vehicles to pass through without stopping, with toll charges processed automatically through linked accounts or digital payment platforms.
Many countries have already embraced barrierless tolling to improve traffic flow while maintaining efficient toll collection. Malaysia should continue moving in the same direction as it modernises its highway network.
As a long-time Penang resident, I look forward to the day when crossing the Penang Bridge becomes as seamless as the island itself deserves. ‒ July 8, 2026
Kuek Cheng Hoe
Balik Pulau, Penang
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main image: Astro Awani
