Exploring sustainable transportation development in Penang: stakeholders’ perspectives of the Penang Transport Master Plan

Abstract

Abstract Transportation is associated with all aspects of the nation’s growth. Nowadays, sustainability is one of the primary goals of many urban transportation systems. Over the past, many innovative initiatives have been undertaken to achieve a safe, efficient, and sustainable transport system. Besides, natural environment, social wellbeing, and economic prosperity depend on sound transportation systems. In Malaysia, Penang is well-known as an industrial and medical hub. In recent years, the state has experienced rapid economic growth. However, without proper development planning for the transportation system and infrastructure, the growth for sustainable development will be jeopardised. Heavy congestions due to increasing car dependency lead to psychological stress for the travellers. There are limited studies on sustainable transportations in Penang. Therefore, this study will explore the current transportation system in Penang, including the Penang Transport Master Plan. To address the aim of the research, we adopt an inductive cross-organisational semi-structured interview to explore the current level of sustainability within Penang transportation system. From this case study, the initial findings indicate Penang is in dire need for a robust, sustainable transport system which can include rail transports and integration of different modes of transport. Moreover, the result also shows that the behaviour and attitude of Penangites towards public transportation needs to be changed. This study suggests a series of long term and short term solutions to enhance the performance of the transportation system in Penang. The balance alignment between the economic, social and environmental themes of sustainability will overcome the issues faced by the current transportation system in Penang.