Penang Hill cable car project 32% complete, expected operational by late 2027
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Penang Hill cable car project is 32% complete, with physical work expected to finish by August 2027.
- The cable car is scheduled to begin operations in the last quarter of 2027.
- Despite initial challenges with underground construction due to geological conditions, the project is progressing, with above-ground work to commence soon.
The Penang Hill cable car project has reached 32% completion, with physical construction anticipated to be fully finished by August 2027. Operations are expected to commence in the final quarter of the same year, according to Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
"This development indicates that the project is entering a more exciting phase after all underground work has been successfully completed," Chow stated during a project monitoring visit. He also witnessed the installation of the third tower, part of the route from Penang Botanic Gardens to Penang Hill.
The project, which began in January 2025, has faced initial hurdles, particularly with underground structural development. These challenges stemmed from the area's complex geology, requiring strict technical compliance and careful examination. However, these initial phases have now been successfully realized.
Chow expressed optimism that the upcoming above-ground construction will allow for better project progress control compared to the more demanding underground phases. The geological conditions, characterized by numerous rock formations, made the underground construction particularly challenging.
This development indicates that the project is entering a more exciting phase after all underground work has been successfully completed.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.