The Government of Penang is revisiting its shelved water taxi project as part of efforts to address worsening congestion amid ongoing infrastructure development. The earlier plan was cancelled when the concessionaire failed to secure approval from the Transport Ministry. The state government now aims to expand the scope of the service by linking both the island and mainland, rather than limiting operations to the island alone.
The proposed network would connect key points such as Straits Quay, Swettenham Pier, Pulau Jerejak, and Batu Maung Transfer Station. Services could run at intervals of 15 to 45 minutes, with Rapid Penang buses providing onward connections. The initiative is intended to complement the upcoming Mutiara LRT, which is scheduled for completion by 2031.
The project also reflects Penang’s push for sustainable transport alternatives, leveraging its waterways to reduce reliance on private vehicles. Authorities believe the service could provide commuters with a reliable and scenic option for daily travel. Alongside transport improvements, the state is enhancing hillside safety measures, including installing sensors along Jalan Tun Sardon for landslide risk monitoring.