Penang: The Penang state government is planning to request additional funds under the Malaysian Road Records Information System (MARRIS) to enhance roads, drainage systems, and other public infrastructure in three specific areas within the Bagan Dalam state constituency.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the initiative following feedback from Bagan Dalam assemblyman Kumaran Krishnan. Residents have expressed concerns over the aging infrastructure, much of which has been in place for over two decades. The state government receives approximately RM300 million annually from MARRIS, but these funds are often insufficient and must be distributed based on project priorities and applications.

The proposed infrastructure improvements include road resurfacing, repairs to road shoulders, and enhancements to drainage systems in Taman Mewah, Taman Bagan, and Kampung Benggali. Chow indicated that while the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) will address immediate safety concerns, such as pothole repairs, larger projects will necessitate additional funding. This year, MBSP received RM99 million under MARRIS, short of its RM150 million request, all of which has already been allocated to existing projects.

Assemblyman Kumaran emphasized the urgency of upgrading the basic infrastructure in these areas, which include low-cost housing, commercial zones, and two schools. Residents have particularly highlighted issues with uneven and potholed roads, which have only received temporary patches due to financial limitations, and insufficient drainage leading to flooding during high tides.

The MBSP has projected the costs for these upgrades at RM1.965 million for Taman Mewah, RM1.415 million for Taman Bagan, and RM2.63 million for Kampung Benggali. MARRIS, originally intended for road maintenance, now also covers the repair of drains and slopes, offering a broader scope of support for state governments.