Penang:Stronger regional connectivity through engineering, infrastructure, and investment is crucial for unlocking economic opportunities within the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT), according to Penang Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zairil emphasized that regional competitiveness now relies heavily on the effectiveness of connecting people, supply chains, technology, and capital across borders. He stated this at the inaugural IMT-GT Engineering Economy Convention 2026, highlighting the need to link these elements seamlessly across regional boundaries for enhanced competitiveness.

Zairil underscored the role of engineering expertise in turning regional economic ambitions into reality by improving connectivity, facilitating investment, and expanding economic cooperation among the three countries involved. He noted that the true measure of regional connectivity is not infrastructure length but the number of economic opportunities created for people.

Penang's infrastructure development efforts were also highlighted by Zairil. These include the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT), the RM3 billion Juru-Sungai Dua Traffic Dispersal Project, and the Air Itam-Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway Bypass. Additionally, the RM2.15 billion Water Contingency Plan 2030, featuring projects like the Taman Mengkuang Water Treatment Plant and Sungai Perai Water Supply Scheme, and the development of Silicon Island's Green Tech Park, were noted as part of the state's comprehensive infrastructure master plan.

He emphasized the challenge of balancing high-density industrial growth with spatial liveability in the state, which spans just over 1,000 square kilometers. Zairil also stressed the importance of strengthening essential utilities and incorporating climate adaptation measures into infrastructure planning to ensure Penang's long-term economic resilience.