BALIK PULAU: Technical expertise and advice on the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) will be offered by the Public Works Department (JKR) if needed, says Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

       He said the plan was not under his purview as it was a state project but JKR in the state and national levels would be willing to offer its expertise to the Penang government on PTMP.

       PTMP is a multibillion ringgit project encompassing a wide range of public transport modes and new road systems in the state.

       “We are a technical agency and if the state needs further expertise, we at the national level are ready to provide it,” he said in response to questions from the press.

       Speaking after an event to mark the completion of the Titi Kerawang bridge and road project in Balik Pulau, he also said political parties should “forget” about having a general election for now and focus on the people’s needs instead.

       “We must take care of the health and economic crisis we are facing, including what is going on in the world.

       “If our economy is better, we will have more resources to look after the welfare of our people,” he said.

       The 15th General Election must be held by July next year but there has been talk that it may be held earlier.

       Earlier, Fadillah said four of the 23 projects under the Works Ministry in the northern region, comprising two projects in Penang and one each in Kedah and Perak, had been completed.

       “The 23 projects, worth RM2.2bil, fall under the 11th and 12th Malaysia Plan, with RM731.7mil of that money going to projects in Penang, RM675.5mil for projects in Kedah and RM805.5mil in Perak.

       “The projects include upgrading of federal roads, the building of new roads and bridges as well as drainage system upgrades,” he said.

       On the Titi Kerawang bridge and road project that cost RM8.1mil, Fadillah said the new bridge was built to replace the existing one as it was built at a 90-degree angle, making it difficult for heavy vehicles to use the road.

       “This area is frequented by tourists as it connects Balik Pulau with Teluk Bahang. This project will improve safety for motorists.”