In Asia, one of the top ten longest bridges in the world is built. It is particularly located in Penang that is why it is named after the place. The Penang Bridge is the acclaimed sixth longest bridge in the world.
It is a dual carriageway toll bridge connects Gelugor on the island of Penang and Seberang Prai on the mainland ofMalaysia on the Malay Peninsula. The bridge is also linked to the North-South Expressway in Prai and Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway in Penang. It was officially opened to traffic on September 14, 1985. The total length of the bridge is 13.5 km (8.4 mi), making it the longest bridge in Malaysia as and the fourth-longest in Southeast Asia. Penang Bridge Sdn Bhd (PBSB) is the concession holder which manages it. The bridge was designed by Penang resident, Professor Chin Fung Kee, a well known civil engineer.
Before 1985, transportation between the island and the mainland was solely dependent on the state-owned Penang Ferry Service that runs between Butterworth and George Town. Toll fees is only paid when heading to the island. There is no charge for leaving the island.
Since 1985, Penang Bridge has been a tolled bridge. The first concession was a government body, the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA). 20% discount on toll rate was initially given to the loyal and regular customer of the bridge since the operation of the bridge by MHA from 1985 to 1994. During the period, majority of regular commuters from the government agencies, manufacturers and transporters purchased the discount vouchers in bulk from MHA and used them at Penang Bridge Toll Plaza.