Penang’s 5.5km Lebuhraya Bandar Cassia will be renamed Jalan Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, in honour of the late fifth Prime Minister’s lasting contributions to the state.
Flags across Penang will also be flown at half-mast this Friday, April 18.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said he proposed the renaming to the Penang State Executive Council (MMK), which unanimously agreed, as it was a meaningful way to recognise Tun Abdullah’s impact on the state’s development during his tenure from 2003 to 2009.
"The Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge or the Second Penang Bridge was the greatest gift of the late Tun Abdullah to the people of Pulau Mutiara when he announced the project in his speech in tabling the Ninth Malaysia Plan in Parliament in 2003.”
Consequently, the second bridge boosted economic growth between Batu Maung on the island and the development of Bandar Cassia in Batu Kawan, particularly as a new industrial zone, said Chow in a statement today.
He added that Abdullah also named Bandar Cassia, a township in Batu Kawan, on August 24, 2004.
The township’s master plan was later approved by the National Physical Planning Council (MPFN), and the name was formalised by the Penang state government in 2016.
“Therefore, the state government wishes to continue preserving Abdullah’s legacy by renaming Lebuhraya Bandar Cassia to Jalan Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi,” he said.
Apart from the Penang Second Bridge and Bandar Cassia, Chow said Penang also benefited greatly under the administration of the late Abdullah.
“These included the first expansion of the Penang International Airport (LTAPP) with an allocation of RM1 billion; the development of Penang Sentral (RM2.7 billion); the Butterworth Outer Ring Road (BORR); and the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER).”
Chow said that the passing of Abdullah was a great loss to the nation, and especially to Penang.
He expressed hope that his service and contributions to the nation would continue to be remembered and cherished by all Malaysians.
The half-mast flag tribute will be carried out at all government premises and local authorities across the state.
“Owners of non-government premises are also urged to do the same as a mark of respect to Abdullah,” said Chow.
Abdullah, born in Penang, passed away on April 13 at the age of 85 after a prolonged battle with dementia.
Widely known as “Pak Lah,” he was remembered for his calm leadership style and promotion of Islam Hadhari.
Tributes poured in nationwide, with many reflecting on his efforts to guide Malaysia with moderation and dignity.
Abdullah is survived by his wife, Tun Jeanne Abdullah, and his children.
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