Why does Penang Forum want an international expert body to review the transport plan?

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Penang Forum Seeks International Review of State Transport Plan Due to Cost and Environmental Concerns

Penang Forum is advocating for an independent international expert body to review the state's proposed Transport Master Plan (PTMP). This call stems from significant concerns regarding the escalating costs and potential environmental repercussions associated with the plan, which appears to overly rely on mega-projects that may not effectively address the island's persistent traffic congestion issues. The group believes a global assessment is necessary to ensure the plan's viability and suitability.
Concerns Over Project Scope and Financial Viability

The primary apprehension voiced by Penang Forum centres on the substantial financial outlay and the ecological impact of the current PTMP. They contend that the plan's emphasis on large-scale infrastructure, such as an undersea tunnel, inflates the project's cost significantly beyond its initial RM27 billion estimate, which was intended to be financed through the sale of reclaimed land. This focus on mega-projects, they argue, might prove counterproductive in solving the fundamental problem of traffic congestion.
Proposal for Independent Global Assessment

To address these reservations, Penang Forum proposes engaging a reputable global independent body for an objective evaluation of the existing proposal. Organisations such as the Institute of Transport and Development or the World Bank are suggested as potential assessors. This approach is intended to bring external expertise to bear on the complex issues, ensuring that the review is conducted without local bias and with a broad understanding of international best practices in urban mobility.
Advocacy for a Shift Towards Comprehensive Public Transport

Beyond questioning the current plan's direction, Penang Forum is championing a fundamental shift in how urban mobility is approached. They advocate for transforming urban mobility through a comprehensive public transport system that is seamless, addresses last-mile connectivity, and is accessible to all residents, rather than solely concentrating on the construction of expensive mega-projects. Improving existing infrastructure, such as enhancing the ferry transportation system, is presented as a more practical and cost-effective alternative for managing cross-channel traffic.

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Why does Penang Forum want an international expert body to review the transport plan?

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