Komtar rep calls for ‘No Dig’ policy and Common Utility Tunnel on Silicon Island

WITH reclamation works for Silicon Island now progressing smoothly, the state has been urged to adopt a “No Dig” policy and incorporate the Common Utility Tunnel (CUT) concept as part of its long-term planning to create a safer, more organised and future-ready development.

During the State Legislative Assembly sitting today, Teh Lai Heng (PH-Komtar) said he was pleased to learn from the Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow that 250 acres of land had already been reclaimed as of October 2025, signalling steady progress for the ambitious project.

Given that Silicon Island is a “greenfield,” he stressed that this presents a timely opportunity for the state to embed modern, sustainable urban solutions from the outset.

He highlighted the advantages of CUT, an underground corridor that systematically houses electricity cables, water pipes, telecommunication lines, sewerage pipes and other utilities.

Teh cited Putrajaya as a successful example where essential services are consolidated in one secure tunnel.

“Although such infrastructure involves higher upfront construction costs, the long-term benefits far outweigh the investment. Maintenance becomes far easier as workers can instal, repair or upgrade utilities without repeatedly digging up roads.

“This will significantly reduce traffic disruptions and improve public convenience. The system also provides a safer underground environment and minimises the risk of accidents during installation or maintenance,” Teh said during his debate on Budget 2026 delivered by Chow on Friday.

Because the island is being developed from scratch, he emphasised that Silicon Island is uniquely positioned to implement CUT more effectively compared to older “brownfield” areas such as George Town and Bayan Lepas, where existing infrastructure poses major constraints.

He said the adoption of such technology would not only strengthen the island’s positioning as a high-value industrial hub but also set a benchmark for more organised, advanced and truly future-ready developments in Penang.

Teh also raised concerns about the increasing number of sinkhole incidents nationwide and in Penang. He cited a tragic case in Kuala Lumpur’s Masjid India area on 23 August 2024, where a land subsidence event claimed the life of an Indian tourist.

Penang has faced similar issues. A sinkhole appeared along the Burma Road in September 2025, followed by another on Jalan Dato Ismail Hashim in Sungai Ara recently. While no fatalities were reported, the incidents have alarmed road users and local communities.

“Many recent sinkholes are linked to ageing or poorly maintained utility infrastructure, especially old piping systems. Utility companies must take greater responsibility by upgrading their systems according to scheduled maintenance plans, adhering to standards, and ensuring excavation and road resurfacing works are carried out properly,” he said.

He stressed that close collaboration among all agencies is necessary to prevent future sinkholes, safeguard public safety and protect state assets.