Is the undersea tunnel project truly an open tender, as claimed?

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The Status of the Undersea Tunnel Project's Tender Process

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng maintains that the RM6.30 billion undersea tunnel project was awarded through an open tender process. However, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has raised questions regarding the tender, leading to investigations into the project.
Claims of an Open Tender Process

Lim Guan Eng has repeatedly asserted that the controversial 7.2km undersea tunnel project, which is part of the state's Penang Transport Master Plan, was subjected to an open tender. This project, intended to connect Gurney Drive on the island to Bagan Ajam in Butterworth, was awarded to Consortium Zenith. The Chief Minister has challenged the MACC's investigations, suggesting they are politically motivated and questioning how an open tender could be considered corrupt.
MACC Investigations and Concerns

The MACC has been investigating the undersea tunnel and associated road projects since 2016. The commission has reportedly leaked information regarding its investigation stages to the media, including details about government officials being called in for questioning. Lim Guan Eng has criticised this practice, accusing the MACC of attempting to "frame" the state government and questioning the commission's motives and credibility in its handling of the probe.
Project Scope and Timeline

The undersea tunnel project is a significant component of the Penang Transport Master Plan, designed to alleviate traffic congestion. Alongside the tunnel, three paired roads are planned: one connecting Tanjung Bungah to Teluk Bahang, another linking Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway to Air Itam, and a third connecting Gurney Drive to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway. While the construction of the undersea tunnel is slated to commence in 2023, the paired roads are scheduled for implementation in stages between the current year and 2025.

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Is the undersea tunnel project truly an open tender, as claimed?

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